Modular energy system with multi-energy port splitter for multiple energy devices

ABSTRACT

A multi-energy port splitter for a modular energy system includes an input port configured to couple to an energy output port of an energy module, a first energy output port configured to deliver energy supplied by the energy output port of the energy module, and at least a second energy output port configured to deliver the energy supplied by the energy output port of the energy module. An electronically controlled power switch configured to switch energy received at the input port to one of the first energy output port or the at least second energy output port. A controller is configured to couple to the energy module through a first communication bus. The controller is electrically coupled to the electronically controlled power switch through a power switch control line. A backplane including backplane communication interfaces is configured to receive a multi-energy port splitter and an energy module.

BACKGROUND

The present disclosure relates to various surgical systems, includingmodular electrosurgical and/or ultrasonic surgical systems. Operatingrooms (ORs) are in need of streamlined capital solutions because ORs area tangled web of cords, devices, and people due to the number ofdifferent devices that are needed to complete each surgical procedure.This is a reality of every OR in every market throughout the globe.Capital equipment is a major offender in creating clutter within ORsbecause most capital equipment performs one task or job, and each typeof capital equipment requires unique techniques or methods to use andhas a unique user interface. Accordingly, there are unmet consumer needsfor capital equipment and other surgical technology to be consolidatedin order to decrease the equipment footprint within the OR, streamlinethe equipment's interfaces, and improve surgical staff efficiency duringa surgical procedure by reducing the number of devices that surgicalstaff members need to interact with.

Energy module components of modular energy systems are not capable ofdriving at least two bipolar RF instruments through one energy portnon-simultaneously. There is a need during certain surgical procedure,however, to employ at least two bipolar RF instruments to complete anoperation. Since energy modules have only a single RF bipolar outputport into which an RF surgical instrument can be plugged into, a secondenergy module would be required to accommodate a second RF surgicalinstrument.

SUMMARY

In one aspect, the present disclosure provides a multi-energy portsplitter for a modular energy system. The multi-energy port splittercomprises an input port configured to couple to an energy output port ofan energy module; a first energy output port configured to deliverenergy supplied by the energy output port of the energy module; at leasta second energy output port configured to deliver the energy supplied bythe energy output port of the energy module; an electronicallycontrolled power switch configured to switch energy received at theinput port to one of the first energy output port or the at least secondenergy output port; and a controller configured to couple to the energymodule through a first communication bus, wherein the controller iselectrically coupled to the electronically controlled power switchthrough a power switch control line.

In another aspect, the present disclosure provides a modular energysystem. The modular energy system comprises a backplane comprising aplurality of backplane communication interfaces, wherein at least one ofthe plurality of communication interfaces is configured to receive atleast one multi-energy port splitter and at least one other backplanecommunication interface is configured to receive an energy module;wherein the at least one multi-energy port splitter is presented as anenergy delivery port to the energy module.

In yet another aspect, the present disclosure provides a modular energysystem. The modular energy system comprises a header module; at leastone energy module coupled to the header module, the energy modulecomprising an energy output port; and a multi-energy port splitter for amodular energy system, the multi-energy port splitter comprising: aninput port coupled to the energy output port of the energy module; afirst energy output port configured to deliver energy supplied by theenergy output port of the energy module; at least a second energy outputport configured to deliver the energy supplied by the energy output portof the energy module; an electronically controlled power switchconfigured to switch energy received at the input port to one of thefirst energy output port or the at least second energy output port; anda controller configured to couple to the energy module through a firstcommunication bus, wherein the controller is electrically coupled to theelectronically controlled power switch through a power switch controlline.

FIGURES

The various aspects described herein, both as to organization andmethods of operation, together with further objects and advantagesthereof, may best be understood by reference to the followingdescription, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings asfollows.

FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a computer-implemented interactive surgicalsystem, in accordance with at least one aspect of the presentdisclosure.

FIG. 2 is a surgical system being used to perform a surgical procedurein an operating room, in accordance with at least one aspect of thepresent disclosure.

FIG. 3 is a surgical hub paired with a visualization system, a roboticsystem, and an intelligent instrument, in accordance with at least oneaspect of the present disclosure.

FIG. 4 is a surgical system comprising a generator and various surgicalinstruments usable therewith, in accordance with at least one aspect ofthe present disclosure.

FIG. 5 is a diagram of a situationally aware surgical system, inaccordance with at least one aspect of the present disclosure.

FIG. 6 is a diagram of various modules and other components that arecombinable to customize modular energy systems, in accordance with atleast one aspect of the present disclosure.

FIG. 7A is a first illustrative modular energy system configurationincluding a header module and a display screen that renders a graphicaluser interface (GUI) for relaying information regarding modulesconnected to the header module, in accordance with at least one aspectof the present disclosure.

FIG. 7B is the modular energy system shown in FIG. 7A mounted to a cart,in accordance with at least one aspect of the present disclosure.

FIG. 8A is a second illustrative modular energy system configurationincluding a header module, a display screen, an energy module, and anexpanded energy module connected together and mounted to a cart, inaccordance with at least one aspect of the present disclosure.

FIG. 8B is a third illustrative modular energy system configuration thatis similar to the second configuration shown in FIG. 7A, except that theheader module lacks a display screen, in accordance with at least oneaspect of the present disclosure.

FIG. 9 is a fourth illustrative modular energy system configurationincluding a header module, a display screen, an energy module, aeexpanded energy module, and a technology module connected together andmounted to a cart, in accordance with at least one aspect of the presentdisclosure.

FIG. 10 is a fifth illustrative modular energy system configurationincluding a header module, a display screen, an energy module, anexpanded energy module, a technology module, and a visualization moduleconnected together and mounted to a cart, in accordance with at leastone aspect of the present disclosure.

FIG. 11 is a diagram of a modular energy system including communicablyconnectable surgical platforms, in accordance with at least one aspectof the present disclosure.

FIG. 12 is a perspective view of a header module of a modular energysystem including a user interface, in accordance with at least oneaspect of the present disclosure.

FIG. 13 is a block diagram of a stand-alone hub configuration of amodular energy system, in accordance with at least one aspect of thepresent disclosure.

FIG. 14 is a block diagram of a hub configuration of a modular energysystem integrated with a surgical control system, in accordance with atleast one aspect of the present disclosure.

FIG. 15 is a block diagram of a user interface module coupled to acommunications module of a modular energy system, in accordance with atleast one aspect of the present disclosure.

FIG. 16 is a block diagram of an energy module of a modular energysystem, in accordance with at least one aspect of the presentdisclosure.

FIGS. 17A and 17B illustrate a block diagram of an energy module coupledto a header module of a modular energy system, in accordance with atleast one aspect of the present disclosure.

FIGS. 18A and 18B illustrate a block diagram of a header/user interface(UI) module of a modular energy system for a hub, such as the headermodule depicted in FIG. 15, in accordance with at least one aspect ofthe present disclosure.

FIG. 19 is a block diagram of an energy module for a hub, such as theenergy module depicted in FIGS. 13-18B, in accordance with at least oneaspect of the present disclosure.

FIG. 20 is a schematic diagram of a modular energy system stackillustrating a power backplane, in accordance with at least one aspectof the present disclosure.

FIG. 21 is a schematic diagram of a modular energy system, in accordancewith at least one aspect of the present disclosure.

FIG. 22 shows a modular energy system comprising a header module, anenergy module, and a multi-energy port splitter coupled thereto, inaccordance with at least one aspect of the present disclosure.

FIG. 23 shows a modular energy system comprising a header module, anenergy module, and a multi-energy port splitter coupled thereto, inaccordance with at least one aspect of the present disclosure.

FIG. 24 shows a data backplane architecture for a modular energy systemwhere the data backplane architecture is supported on actual physicalbackplane communication interfaces and a multi-energy port splitterpresents as two energy devices, in accordance with at least one aspectof the present disclosure.

FIG. 25 shows a data backplane architecture for a modular energy systemwhere the data backplane architecture is supported on an actual physicalbackplane communication interface and a multi-energy port splitterpresents as a type of energy device, in accordance with at least oneaspect of the present disclosure.

Corresponding reference characters indicate corresponding partsthroughout the several views. The exemplifications set out hereinillustrate various disclosed aspects, in one form, and suchexemplifications are not to be construed as limiting the scope thereofin any manner.

DESCRIPTION

Applicant of the present application owns the following U.S. patentapplications filed concurrently herewith, the disclosure of each ofwhich is herein incorporated by reference in its entirety:

-   U.S. Patent Application Docket No. END9314USNP1/210018-1M, titled    METHOD FOR MECHANICAL PACKAGING FOR MODULAR ENERGY SYSTEM;-   U.S. Patent Application Docket No. END9314USNP2/210018-2, titled    BACKPLANE CONNECTOR ATTACHMENT MECHANISM FOR MODULAR ENERGY SYSTEM;-   U.S. Patent Application Docket No. END9314USNP3/210018-3, titled    BEZEL WITH LIGHT BLOCKING FEATURES FOR MODULAR ENERGY SYSTEM;-   U.S. Patent Application Docket No. END9314USNP4/210018-4, titled    HEADER FOR MODULAR ENERGY SYSTEM;-   U.S. Patent Application Docket No. END9315USNP1/210019, titled    SURGICAL PROCEDURALIZATION VIA MODULAR ENERGY SYSTEM;-   U.S. Patent Application Docket No. END9316USNP1/210020-1M, titled    METHOD FOR ENERGY DELIVERY FOR MODULAR ENERGY SYSTEM;-   U.S. Patent Application Docket No. END9316USNP2/210020-2, titled    MODULAR ENERGY SYSTEM WITH DUAL AMPLIFIERS AND TECHNIQUES FOR    UPDATING PARAMETERS THEREOF;-   U.S. Patent Application Docket No. END9317USNP1/210021-1M, titled    METHOD FOR INTELLIGENT INSTRUMENTS FOR MODULAR ENERGY SYSTEM;-   U.S. Patent Application Docket No. END9317USNP2/210021-2, titled    RADIO FREQUENCY IDENTIFICATION TOKEN FOR WIRELESS SURGICAL    INSTRUMENTS;-   U.S. Patent Application Docket No. END9317USNP3/210021-3, titled    INTELLIGENT DATA PORTS FOR MODULAR ENERGY SYSTEMS;-   U.S. Patent Application Docket No. END9318USNP1/210022-1M, titled    METHOD FOR SYSTEM ARCHITECTURE FOR MODULAR ENERGY SYSTEM;-   U.S. Patent Application Docket No. END9318USNP2/210022-2, titled    USER INTERFACE MITIGATION TECHNIQUES FOR MODULAR ENERGY SYSTEMS;-   U.S. Patent Application Docket No. END9318USNP3/210022-3, titled    ENERGY DELIVERY MITIGATIONS FOR MODULAR ENERGY SYSTEMS;-   U.S. Patent Application Docket No. END9318USNP4/210022-4, titled    ARCHITECTURE FOR MODULAR ENERGY SYSTEM; and-   U.S. Patent Application Docket No. END9318USNP5/210022-5, titled    MODULAR ENERGY SYSTEM WITH HARDWARE MITIGATED COMMUNICATION.

Applicant of the present application owns the following U.S. patentapplications filed Sep. 5, 2019, the disclosure of each of which isherein incorporated by reference in its entirety:

-   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/562,144, titled METHOD FOR    CONTROLLING A MODULAR ENERGY SYSTEM USER INTERFACE, now U.S. Patent    Application Publication No. 2020/0078106;-   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/562,151, titled PASSIVE HEADER    MODULE FOR A MODULAR ENERGY SYSTEM, now U.S. Patent Application    Publication No. 2020/0078110;-   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/562,157, titled CONSOLIDATED    USER INTERFACE FOR MODULAR ENERGY SYSTEM, now U.S. Patent    Application Publication No. 2020/0081585;-   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/562,159, titled AUDIO TONE    CONSTRUCTION FOR AN ENERGY MODULE OF A MODULAR ENERGY SYSTEM, now    U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2020/0314569;-   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/562,163, titled ADAPTABLY    CONNECTABLE AND REASSIGNABLE SYSTEM ACCESSORIES FOR MODULAR ENERGY    SYSTEM, now-   U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2020/0078111;-   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/562,123, titled METHOD FOR    CONSTRUCTING AND USING A MODULAR SURGICAL ENERGY SYSTEM WITH    MULTIPLE DEVICES, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No.    2020/0100830;-   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/562,135, titled METHOD FOR    CONTROLLING AN ENERGY MODULE OUTPUT, now U.S. Patent Application    Publication No. 2020/0078076;-   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/562,180, titled ENERGY MODULE    FOR DRIVING MULTIPLE ENERGY MODALITIES, now U.S. Patent Application    Publication No. 2020/0078080;-   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/562,184, titled GROUNDING    ARRANGEMENT OF ENERGY MODULES, now U.S. Patent Application    Publication No. 2020/0078081;-   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/562,188, titled BACKPLANE    CONNECTOR DESIGN TO CONNECT STACKED ENERGY MODULES, now U.S. Patent    Application Publication No. 2020/0078116;-   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/562,195, titled ENERGY MODULE    FOR DRIVING MULTIPLE ENERGY MODALITIES THROUGH A PORT, now U.S.    Patent Application Publication No. 2020/0078117;-   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/562,202 titled SURGICAL    INSTRUMENT UTILIZING DRIVE SIGNAL TO POWER SECONDARY FUNCTION, now    U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2020/0078082;-   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/562,142, titled METHOD FOR    ENERGY DISTRIBUTION IN A SURGICAL MODULAR ENERGY SYSTEM, now U.S.    Patent Application Publication No. 2020/0078070;-   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/562,169, titled SURGICAL MODULAR    ENERGY SYSTEM WITH A SEGMENTED BACKPLANE, now U.S. Patent    Application Publication No. 2020/0078112;-   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/562,185, titled SURGICAL MODULAR    ENERGY SYSTEM WITH FOOTER MODULE, now U.S. Patent Application    Publication No. 2020/0078115;-   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/562,203, titled POWER AND    COMMUNICATION MITIGATION ARRANGEMENT FOR MODULAR SURGICAL ENERGY    SYSTEM, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2020/0078118;-   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/562,212, titled MODULAR SURGICAL    ENERGY SYSTEM WITH MODULE POSITIONAL AWARENESS SENSING WITH VOLTAGE    DETECTION, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2020/0078119;-   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/562,234, titled MODULAR SURGICAL    ENERGY SYSTEM WITH MODULE POSITIONAL AWARENESS SENSING WITH TIME    COUNTER, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2020/0305945;-   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/562,243, titled MODULAR SURGICAL    ENERGY SYSTEM WITH MODULE POSITIONAL AWARENESS WITH DIGITAL LOGIC,    now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2020/0078120;-   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/562,125, titled METHOD FOR    COMMUNICATING BETWEEN MODULES AND DEVICES IN A MODULAR SURGICAL    SYSTEM, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2020/0100825;-   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/562,137, titled FLEXIBLE    HAND-SWITCH CIRCUIT, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No.    2020/0106220;-   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/562,143, titled FIRST AND SECOND    COMMUNICATION PROTOCOL ARRANGEMENT FOR DRIVING PRIMARY AND SECONDARY    DEVICES THROUGH A SINGLE PORT, now U.S. Patent Application    Publication No. 2020/0090808;-   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/562,148, titled FLEXIBLE NEUTRAL    ELECTRODE, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2020/0078077;-   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/562,154, titled SMART RETURN PAD    SENSING THROUGH MODULATION OF NEAR FIELD COMMUNICATION AND CONTACT    QUALITY MONITORING SIGNALS, now U.S. Patent Application Publication    No. 2020/0078089;-   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/562,162, titled AUTOMATIC    ULTRASONIC ENERGY ACTIVATION CIRCUIT DESIGN FOR MODULAR SURGICAL    SYSTEMS, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2020/0305924;-   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/562,167, titled COORDINATED    ENERGY OUTPUTS OF SEPARATE BUT CONNECTED MODULES, now U.S. Patent    Application Publication No. 2020/0078078;-   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/562,170, titled MANAGING    SIMULTANEOUS MONOPOLAR OUTPUTS USING DUTY CYCLE AND SYNCHRONIZATION,    now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2020/0078079;-   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/562,172, titled PORT PRESENCE    DETECTION SYSTEM FOR MODULAR ENERGY SYSTEM, now U.S. Patent    Application Publication No. 2020/0078113;-   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/562,175, titled INSTRUMENT    TRACKING ARRANGEMENT BASED ON REAL TIME CLOCK INFORMATION, now U.S.    Patent Application Publication No. 2020/0078071;-   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/562,177, titled REGIONAL    LOCATION TRACKING OF COMPONENTS OF A MODULAR ENERGY SYSTEM, now U.S.    Patent Application Publication No. 2020/0078114;-   U.S. Design Patent Application Serial No. 29/704,610, titled ENERGY    MODULE;-   U.S. Design Patent Application Serial No. 29/704,614, titled ENERGY    MODULE MONOPOLAR PORT WITH FOURTH SOCKET AMONG THREE OTHER SOCKETS;-   U.S. Design Patent Application Serial No. 29/704,616, titled    BACKPLANE CONNECTOR FOR ENERGY MODULE; and-   U.S. Design Patent Application Serial No. 29/704,617, titled ALERT    SCREEN FOR ENERGY MODULE.

Applicant of the present application owns the following U.S. PatentProvisional Applications filed Mar. 29, 2019, the disclosure of each ofwhich is herein incorporated by reference in its entirety:

-   U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 62/826,584, titled    MODULAR SURGICAL PLATFORM ELECTRICAL ARCHITECTURE;-   U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 62/826,587, titled    MODULAR ENERGY SYSTEM CONNECTIVITY;-   U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 62/826,588, titled    MODULAR ENERGY SYSTEM INSTRUMENT COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUES; and-   U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 62/826,592, titled    MODULAR ENERGY DELIVERY SYSTEM.

Applicant of the present application owns the following U.S. PatentProvisional Application filed Sep. 7, 2018, the disclosure of which isherein incorporated by reference in its entirety:

-   U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 62/728,480, titled    MODULAR ENERGY SYSTEM AND USER INTERFACE.

Before explaining various aspects of surgical devices and generators indetail, it should be noted that the illustrative examples are notlimited in application or use to the details of construction andarrangement of parts illustrated in the accompanying drawings anddescription. The illustrative examples may be implemented orincorporated in other aspects, variations and modifications, and may bepracticed or carried out in various ways. Further, unless otherwiseindicated, the terms and expressions employed herein have been chosenfor the purpose of describing the illustrative examples for theconvenience of the reader and are not for the purpose of limitationthereof. Also, it will be appreciated that one or more of thefollowing-described aspects, expressions of aspects, and/or examples,can be combined with any one or more of the other following-describedaspects, expressions of aspects and/or examples.

Various aspects are directed to improved ultrasonic surgical devices,electrosurgical devices and generators for use therewith. Aspects of theultrasonic surgical devices can be configured for transecting and/orcoagulating tissue during surgical procedures, for example. Aspects ofthe electrosurgical devices can be configured for transecting,coagulating, scaling, welding and/or desiccating tissue during surgicalprocedures, for example.

Surgical System Hardware

Referring to FIG. 1, a computer-implemented interactive surgical system100 includes one or more surgical systems 102 and a cloud-based system(e.g., the cloud 104 that may include a remote server 113 coupled to astorage device 105). Each surgical system 102 includes at least onesurgical hub 106 in communication with the cloud 104 that may include aremote server 113. In one example, as illustrated in FIG. 1, thesurgical system 102 includes a visualization system 108, a roboticsystem 110, and a handheld intelligent surgical instrument 112, whichare configured to communicate with one another and/or the hub 106. Insome aspects, a surgical system 102 may include an M number of hubs 106,an N number of visualization systems 108, an O number of robotic systems110, and a P number of handheld intelligent surgical instruments 112,where M, N, O, and P are integers greater than or equal to one.

FIG. 2 depicts an example of a surgical system 102 being used to performa surgical procedure on a patient who is lying down on an operatingtable 114 in a surgical operating room 116. A robotic system 110 is usedin the surgical procedure as a part of the surgical system 102. Therobotic system 110 includes a surgeon's console 118, a patient side cart120 (surgical robot), and a surgical robotic hub 122. The patient sidecart 120 can manipulate at least one removably coupled surgical tool 117through a minimally invasive incision in the body of the patient whilethe surgeon views the surgical site through the surgeon's console 118.An image of the surgical site can be obtained by a medical imagingdevice 124, which can be manipulated by the patient side cart 120 toorient the imaging device 124. The robotic hub 122 can be used toprocess the images of the surgical site for subsequent display to thesurgeon through the surgeon's console 118.

Other types of robotic systems can be readily adapted for use with thesurgical system 102. Various examples of robotic systems and surgicaltools that are suitable for use with the present disclosure aredescribed in U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 62/611,339,titled ROBOT ASSISTED SURGICAL PLATFORM, filed Dec. 28, 2017, thedisclosure of which is herein incorporated by reference in its entirety.

Various examples of cloud-based analytics that are performed by thecloud 104, and are suitable for use with the present disclosure, aredescribed in U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 62/611,340,titled CLOUD-BASED MEDICAL ANALYTICS, filed Dec. 28, 2017, thedisclosure of which is herein incorporated by reference in its entirety.

In various aspects, the imaging device 124 includes at least one imagesensor and one or more optical components. Suitable image sensorsinclude, but are not limited to, Charge-Coupled Device (CCD) sensors andComplementary Metal-Oxide Semiconductor (CMOS) sensors.

The optical components of the imaging device 124 may include one or moreillumination sources and/or one or more lenses. The one or moreillumination sources may be directed to illuminate portions of thesurgical field. The one or more image sensors may receive lightreflected or refracted from the surgical field, including lightreflected or refracted from tissue and/or surgical instruments.

The one or more illumination sources may be configured to radiateelectromagnetic energy in the visible spectrum as well as the invisiblespectrum. The visible spectrum, sometimes referred to as the opticalspectrum or luminous spectrum, is that portion of the electromagneticspectrum that is visible to (i.e., can be detected by) the human eye andmay be referred to as visible light or simply light. A typical human eyewill respond to wavelengths in air that are from about 380 nm to about750 nm.

The invisible spectrum (i.e., the non-luminous spectrum) is that portionof the electromagnetic spectrum that lies below and above the visiblespectrum (i.e., wavelengths below about 380 nm and above about 750 nm).The invisible spectrum is not detectable by the human eye. Wavelengthsgreater than about 750 nm are longer than the red visible spectrum, andthey become invisible infrared (IR), microwave, and radioelectromagnetic radiation. Wavelengths less than about 380 nm areshorter than the violet spectrum, and they become invisible ultraviolet,x-ray, and gamma ray electromagnetic radiation.

In various aspects, the imaging device 124 is configured for use in aminimally invasive procedure. Examples of imaging devices suitable foruse with the present disclosure include, but not limited to, anarthroscope, angioscope, bronchoscope, choledochoscope, colonoscope,cytoscope, duodenoscope, enteroscope, esophagogastro-duodenoscope(gastroscope), endoscope, laryngoscope, nasopharyngo-neproscope,sigmoidoscope, thoracoscope, and ureteroscope.

In one aspect, the imaging device employs multi-spectrum monitoring todiscriminate topography and underlying structures. A multi-spectralimage is one that captures image data within specific wavelength rangesacross the electromagnetic spectrum. The wavelengths may be separated byfilters or by the use of instruments that are sensitive to particularwavelengths, including light from frequencies beyond the visible lightrange, e.g., IR and ultraviolet. Spectral imaging can allow extractionof additional information the human eye fails to capture with itsreceptors for red, green, and blue. The use of multi-spectral imaging isdescribed in greater detail under the heading “Advanced ImagingAcquisition Module” in U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No.62/611,341, titled INTERACTIVE SURGICAL PLATFORM, filed Dec. 28, 2017,the disclosure of which is herein incorporated by reference in itsentirety. Multi-spectrum monitoring can be a useful tool in relocating asurgical field after a surgical task is completed to perform one or moreof the previously described tests on the treated tissue.

It is axiomatic that strict sterilization of the operating room andsurgical equipment is required during any surgery. The strict hygieneand sterilization conditions required in a “surgical theater,” i.e., anoperating or treatment room, necessitate the highest possible sterilityof all medical devices and equipment. Part of that sterilization processis the need to sterilize anything that comes in contact with the patientor penetrates the sterile field, including the imaging device 124 andits attachments and components. It will be appreciated that the sterilefield may be considered a specified area, such as within a tray or on asterile towel, that is considered free of microorganisms, or the sterilefield may be considered an area, immediately around a patient, who hasbeen prepared for a surgical procedure. The sterile field may includethe scrubbed team members, who are properly attired, and all furnitureand fixtures in the area.

In various aspects, the visualization system 108 includes one or moreimaging sensors, one or more image-processing units, one or more storagearrays, and one or more displays that are strategically arranged withrespect to the sterile field, as illustrated in FIG. 2. In one aspect,the visualization system 108 includes an interface for HL7, PACS, andEMR. Various components of the visualization system 108 are describedunder the heading “Advanced Imaging Acquisition Module” in U.S.Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 62/611,341, titled INTERACTIVESURGICAL PLATFORM, filed Dec. 28, 2017, the disclosure of which isherein incorporated by reference in its entirety.

As illustrated in FIG. 2, a primary display 119 is positioned in thesterile field to be visible to an operator at the operating table 114.In addition, a visualization tower 111 is positioned outside the sterilefield. The visualization tower 111 includes a first non-sterile display107 and a second non-sterile display 109, which face away from eachother. The visualization system 108, guided by the hub 106, isconfigured to utilize the displays 107, 109, and 119 to coordinateinformation flow to operators inside and outside the sterile field. Forexample, the hub 106 may cause the visualization system 108 to display asnapshot of a surgical site, as recorded by an imaging device 124, on anon-sterile display 107 or 109, while maintaining a live feed of thesurgical site on the primary display 119. The snapshot on thenon-sterile display 107 or 109 can permit a non-sterile operator toperform a diagnostic step relevant to the surgical procedure, forexample.

In one aspect, the hub 106 is also configured to route a diagnosticinput or feedback entered by a non-sterile operator at the visualizationtower 111 to the primary display 119 within the sterile field, where itcan be viewed by a sterile operator at the operating table. In oneexample, the input can be in the form of a modification to the snapshotdisplayed on the non-sterile display 107 or 109, which can be routed tothe primary display 119 by the hub 106.

Referring to FIG. 2, a surgical instrument 112 is being used in thesurgical procedure as part of the surgical system 102. The hub 106 isalso configured to coordinate information flow to a display of thesurgical instrument 112. For example, in U.S. Provisional PatentApplication Ser. No. 62/611,341, titled INTERACTIVE SURGICAL PLATFORM,filed Dec. 28, 2017, the disclosure of which is herein incorporated byreference in its entirety. A diagnostic input or feedback entered by anon-sterile operator at the visualization tower 111 can be routed by thehub 106 to the surgical instrument display 115 within the sterile field,where it can be viewed by the operator of the surgical instrument 112.Example surgical instruments that are suitable for use with the surgicalsystem 102 are described under the heading SURGICAL INSTRUMENT HARDWAREand in U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 62/611,341, titledINTERACTIVE SURGICAL PLATFORM, filed Dec. 28, 2017, the disclosure ofwhich is herein incorporated by reference in its entirety, for example.

Referring now to FIG. 3, a hub 106 is depicted in communication with avisualization system 108, a robotic system 110, and a handheldintelligent surgical instrument 112. In some aspects, the visualizationsystem 108 may be a separable piece of equipment. In alternativeaspects, the visualization system 108 could be contained within the hub106 as a functional module. The hub 106 includes a hub display 135, animaging module 138, a generator module 140, a communication module 130,a processor module 132, a storage array 134, and an operating roommapping module 133. In certain aspects, as illustrated in FIG. 3, thehub 106 further includes a smoke evacuation module 126, asuction/irrigation module 128, and/or an insufflation module 129. Incertain aspects, any of the modules in the hub 106 may be combined witheach other into a single module.

During a surgical procedure, energy application to tissue, for sealingand/or cutting, is generally associated with smoke evacuation, suctionof excess fluid, and/or irrigation of the tissue. Fluid, power, and/ordata lines from different sources are often entangled during thesurgical procedure. Valuable time can be lost addressing this issueduring a surgical procedure. Detangling the lines may necessitatedisconnecting the lines from their respective modules, which may requireresetting the modules. The hub modular enclosure 136 offers a unifiedenvironment for managing the power, data, and fluid lines, which reducesthe frequency of entanglement between such lines.

Aspects of the present disclosure present a surgical hub for use in asurgical procedure that involves energy application to tissue at asurgical site. The surgical hub includes a hub enclosure and a combogenerator module slidably receivable in a docking station of the hubenclosure. The docking station includes data and power contacts. Thecombo generator module includes one or more of an ultrasonic energygenerator component, a bipolar RF energy generator component, and amonopolar RF energy generator component that are housed in a singleunit. In one aspect, the combo generator module also includes a smokeevacuation component, at least one energy delivery cable for connectingthe combo generator module to a surgical instrument, at least one smokeevacuation component configured to evacuate smoke, fluid, and/orparticulates generated by the application of therapeutic energy to thetissue, and a fluid line extending from the remote surgical site to thesmoke evacuation component.

In one aspect, the fluid line is a first fluid line and a second fluidline extends from the remote surgical site to a suction and irrigationmodule slidably received in the hub enclosure. In one aspect, the hubenclosure comprises a fluid interface.

Certain surgical procedures may require the application of more than oneenergy type to the tissue. One energy type may be more beneficial forcutting the tissue, while another different energy type may be morebeneficial for sealing the tissue. For example, a bipolar generator canbe used to seal the tissue while an ultrasonic generator can be used tocut the sealed tissue. Aspects of the present disclosure present asolution where a hub modular enclosure 136 is configured to accommodatedifferent generators, and facilitate an interactive communicationtherebetween. One of the advantages of the hub modular enclosure 136 isenabling the quick removal and/or replacement of various modules.

Aspects of the present disclosure present a modular surgical enclosurefor use in a surgical procedure that involves energy application totissue. The modular surgical enclosure includes a first energy-generatormodule, configured to generate a first energy for application to thetissue, and a first docking station comprising a first docking port thatincludes first data and power contacts. In one aspect, the firstenergy-generator module is slidably movable into an electricalengagement with the power and data contacts and wherein the firstenergy-generator module is slidably movable out of the electricalengagement with the first power and data contacts. In an alternativeaspect, the first energy-generator module is stackably movable into anelectrical engagement with the power and data contacts and wherein thefirst energy-generator module is stackably movable out of the electricalengagement with the first power and data contacts.

Further to the above, the modular surgical enclosure also includes asecond energy-generator module configured to generate a second energy,either the same or different than the first energy, for application tothe tissue, and a second docking station comprising a second dockingport that includes second data and power contacts. In one aspect, thesecond energy-generator module is slidably movable into an electricalengagement with the power and data contacts, and wherein the secondenergy-generator module is slidably movable out of the electricalengagement with the second power and data contacts. In an alternativeaspect, the second energy-generator module is stackably movable into anelectrical engagement with the power and data contacts, and wherein thesecond energy-generator module is stackably movable out of theelectrical engagement with the second power and data contacts.

In addition, the modular surgical enclosure also includes acommunication bus between the first docking port and the second dockingport, configured to facilitate communication between the firstenergy-generator module and the second energy-generator module.

Referring to FIG. 3, aspects of the present disclosure are presented fora hub modular enclosure 136 that allows the modular integration of agenerator module 140, a smoke evacuation module 126, asuction/irrigation module 128, and an insufflation module 129. The hubmodular enclosure 136 further facilitates interactive communicationbetween the modules 140, 126, 128, 129. The generator module 140 can bea generator module with integrated monopolar, bipolar, and ultrasoniccomponents supported in a single housing unit slidably insertable intothe hub modular enclosure 136. The generator module 140 can beconfigured to connect to a monopolar device 142, a bipolar device 144,and an ultrasonic device 148. Alternatively, the generator module 140may comprise a series of monopolar, bipolar, and/or ultrasonic generatormodules that interact through the hub modular enclosure 136. The hubmodular enclosure 136 can be configured to facilitate the insertion ofmultiple generators and interactive communication between the generatorsdocked into the hub modular enclosure 136 so that the generators wouldact as a single generator.

In one aspect, the hub modular enclosure 136 comprises a modular powerand communication backplane 149 with external and wireless communicationheaders to enable the removable attachment of the modules 140, 126, 128,129 and interactive communication therebetween.

Generator Hardware

As used throughout this description, the term “wireless” and itsderivatives may be used to describe circuits, devices, systems, methods,techniques, communications channels, etc., that may communicate datathrough the use of modulated electromagnetic radiation through anon-solid medium. The term does not imply that the associated devices donot contain any wires, although in some aspects they might not. Thecommunication module may implement any of a number of wireless or wiredcommunication standards or protocols, including but not limited to Wi-Fi(IEEE 802.11 family), WiMAX (IEEE 802.16 family), IEEE 802.20, long termevolution (LTE), Ev-DO, HSPA+, HSDPA+, HSUPA+, EDGE, GSM, GPRS, CDMA,TDMA, DECT, Bluetooth, Ethernet derivatives thereof, as well as anyother wireless and wired protocols that are designated as 3G, 4G, 5G,and beyond. The computing module may include a plurality ofcommunication modules. For instance, a first communication module may bededicated to shorter range wireless communications such as Wi-Fi andBluetooth and a second communication module may be dedicated to longerrange wireless communications such as GPS, EDGE, GPRS, CDMA, WiMAX, LTE,Ev-DO, and others.

As used herein a processor or processing unit is an electronic circuitwhich performs operations on some external data source, usually memoryor some other data stream. The term is used herein to refer to thecentral processor (central processing unit) in a system or computersystems (especially systems on a chip (SoCs)) that combine a number ofspecialized “processors.”

As used herein, a system on a chip or system on chip (SoC or SOC) is anintegrated circuit (also known as an “IC” or “chip”) that integrates allcomponents of a computer or other electronic systems. It may containdigital, analog, mixed-signal, and often radio-frequency functions—allon a single substrate. A SoC integrates a microcontroller (ormicroprocessor) with advanced peripherals like graphics processing unit(GPU), Wi-Fi module, or coprocessor. A SoC may or may not containbuilt-in memory.

As used herein, a microcontroller or controller is a system thatintegrates a microprocessor with peripheral circuits and memory. Amicrocontroller (or MCU for microcontroller unit) may be implemented asa small computer on a single integrated circuit. It may be similar to aSoC; a SoC may include a microcontroller as one of its components. Amicrocontroller may contain one or more core processing units (CPUs)along with memory and programmable input/output peripherals. Programmemory in the form of Ferroelectric RAM, NOR flash or OTP ROM is alsooften included on chip, as well as a small amount of RAM.Microcontrollers may be employed for embedded applications, in contrastto the microprocessors used in personal computers or other generalpurpose applications consisting of various discrete chips.

As used herein, the term controller or microcontroller may be astand-alone IC or chip device that interfaces with a peripheral device.This may be a link between two parts of a computer or a controller on anexternal device that manages the operation of (and connection with) thatdevice.

Any of the processors or microcontrollers described herein, may beimplemented by any single core or multicore processor such as thoseknown under the trade name ARM Cortex by Texas Instruments. In oneaspect, the processor may be an LM4F230H5QR ARM Cortex-M4F ProcessorCore, available from Texas Instruments, for example, comprising on-chipmemory of 256 KB single-cycle flash memory, or other non-volatilememory, up to 40 MHz, a prefetch buffer to improve performance above 40MHz, a 32 KB single-cycle serial random access memory (SRAM), internalread-only memory (ROM) loaded with StellarisWare® software, 2 KBelectrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), one ormore pulse width modulation (PWM) modules, one or more quadratureencoder inputs (QEI) analog, one or more 12-bit Analog-to-DigitalConverters (ADC) with 12 analog input channels, details of which areavailable for the product datasheet.

In one aspect, the processor may comprise a safety controller comprisingtwo controller-based families such as TMS570 and RM4x known under thetrade name Hercules ARM Cortex R4, also by Texas Instruments. The safetycontroller may be configured specifically for IEC 61508 and ISO 26262safety critical applications, among others, to provide advancedintegrated safety features while delivering scalable performance,connectivity, and memory options.

Modular devices include the modules (as described in connection withFIG. 3, for example) that are receivable within a surgical hub and thesurgical devices or instruments that can be connected to the variousmodules in order to connect or pair with the corresponding surgical hub.The modular devices include, for example, intelligent surgicalinstruments, medical imaging devices, suction/irrigation devices, smokeevacuators, energy generators, ventilators, insufflators, and displays.The modular devices described herein can be controlled by controlalgorithms. The control algorithms can be executed on the modular deviceitself, on the surgical hub to which the particular modular device ispaired, or on both the modular device and the surgical hub (e.g., via adistributed computing architecture). In some exemplifications, themodular devices' control algorithms control the devices based on datasensed by the modular device itself (i.e., by sensors in, on, orconnected to the modular device). This data can be related to thepatient being operated on (e.g., tissue properties or insufflationpressure) or the modular device itself (e.g., the rate at which a knifeis being advanced, motor current, or energy levels). For example, acontrol algorithm for a surgical stapling and cutting instrument cancontrol the rate at which the instrument's motor drives its knifethrough tissue according to resistance encountered by the knife as itadvances.

FIG. 4 illustrates one form of a surgical system 2200 comprising amodular energy system 2000 and various surgical instruments 2204, 2206,2208 usable therewith, where the surgical instrument 2204 is anultrasonic surgical instrument, the surgical instrument 2206 is an RFelectrosurgical instrument, and the multifunction surgical instrument2208 is a combination ultrasonic/RF electrosurgical instrument. Themodular energy system 2000 is configurable for use with a variety ofsurgical instruments. According to various forms, the modular energysystem 2000 may be configurable for use with different surgicalinstruments of different types including, for example, ultrasonicsurgical instruments 2204, RF electrosurgical instruments 2206, andmultifunction surgical instruments 2208 that integrate RF and ultrasonicenergies delivered individually or simultaneously from the modularenergy system 2000. Although in the form of FIG. 4 the modular energysystem 2000 is shown separate from the surgical instruments 2204, 2206,2208 in one form, the modular energy system 2000 may be formedintegrally with any of the surgical instruments 2204, 2206, 2208 to forma unitary surgical system. The modular energy system 2000 may beconfigured for wired or wireless communication.

The modular energy system 2000 is configured to drive multiple surgicalinstruments 2204, 2206, 2208. The first surgical instrument is anultrasonic surgical instrument 2204 and comprises a handpiece 2205 (HP),an ultrasonic transducer 2220, a shaft 2226, and an end effector 2222.The end effector 2222 comprises an ultrasonic blade 2228 acousticallycoupled to the ultrasonic transducer 2220 and a clamp arm 2240. Thehandpiece 2205 comprises a trigger 2243 to operate the clamp arm 2240and a combination of the toggle buttons 2234 a, 2234 b, 2234 c toenergize and drive the ultrasonic blade 2228 or other function. Thetoggle buttons 2234 a, 2234 b, 2234 c can be configured to energize theultrasonic transducer 2220 with the modular energy system 2000.

The modular energy system 2000 also is configured to drive a secondsurgical instrument 2206. The second surgical instrument 2206 is an RFelectrosurgical instrument and comprises a handpiece 2207 (HP), a shaft2227, and an end effector 2224. The end effector 2224 compriseselectrodes in clamp arms 2242 a, 2242 b and return through an electricalconductor portion of the shaft 2227. The electrodes are coupled to andenergized by a bipolar energy source within the modular energy system2000. The handpiece 2207 comprises a trigger 2245 to operate the clamparms 2242 a, 2242 b and an energy button 2235 to actuate an energyswitch to energize the electrodes in the end effector 2224.

The modular energy system 2000 also is configured to drive amultifunction surgical instrument 2208. The multifunction surgicalinstrument 2208 comprises a handpiece 2209 (HP), a shaft 2229, and anend effector 2225. The end effector 2225 comprises an ultrasonic blade2249 and a clamp arm 2246. The ultrasonic blade 2249 is acousticallycoupled to the ultrasonic transducer 2220. The ultrasonic transducer2220 may be separable from or integral to the handpiece 2209. Thehandpiece 2209 comprises a trigger 2247 to operate the clamp arm 2246and a combination of the toggle buttons 2237 a, 2237 b, 2237 c toenergize and drive the ultrasonic blade 2249 or other function. Thetoggle buttons 2237 a, 2237 b, 2237 c can be configured to energize theultrasonic transducer 2220 with the modular energy system 2000 andenergize the ultrasonic blade 2249 with a bipolar energy source alsocontained within the modular energy system 2000.

The modular energy system 2000 is configurable for use with a variety ofsurgical instruments. According to various forms, the modular energysystem 2000 may be configurable for use with different surgicalinstruments of different types including, for example, the ultrasonicsurgical instrument 2204, the RF electrosurgical instrument 2206, andthe multifunction surgical instrument 2208 that integrates RF andultrasonic energies delivered individually or simultaneously from themodular energy system 2000. Although in the form of FIG. 4 the modularenergy system 2000 is shown separate from the surgical instruments 2204,2206, 2208, in another form the modular energy system 2000 may be formedintegrally with any one of the surgical instruments 2204, 2206, 2208 toform a unitary surgical system. Further aspects of generators fordigitally generating electrical signal waveforms and surgicalinstruments are described in U.S. Patent Application Publication No.2017/0086914, which is herein incorporated by reference in its entirety.

Situational Awareness

Although an “intelligent” device including control algorithms thatrespond to sensed data can be an improvement over a “dumb” device thatoperates without accounting for sensed data, some sensed data can beincomplete or inconclusive when considered in isolation, i.e., withoutthe context of the type of surgical procedure being performed or thetype of tissue that is being operated on. Without knowing the proceduralcontext (e.g., knowing the type of tissue being operated on or the typeof procedure being performed), the control algorithm may control themodular device incorrectly or sub optimally given the particularcontext-free sensed data. For example, the optimal manner for a controlalgorithm to control a surgical instrument in response to a particularsensed parameter can vary according to the particular tissue type beingoperated on. This is due to the fact that different tissue types havedifferent properties (e.g., resistance to tearing) and thus responddifferently to actions taken by surgical instruments. Therefore, it maybe desirable for a surgical instrument to take different actions evenwhen the same measurement for a particular parameter is sensed. As onespecific example, the optimal manner in which to control a surgicalstapling and cutting instrument in response to the instrument sensing anunexpectedly high force to close its end effector will vary dependingupon whether the tissue type is susceptible or resistant to tearing. Fortissues that are susceptible to tearing, such as lung tissue, theinstrument's control algorithm would optimally ramp down the motor inresponse to an unexpectedly high force to close to avoid tearing thetissue. For tissues that are resistant to tearing, such as stomachtissue, the instrument's control algorithm would optimally ramp up themotor in response to an unexpectedly high force to close to ensure thatthe end effector is clamped properly on the tissue. Without knowingwhether lung or stomach tissue has been clamped, the control algorithmmay make a suboptimal decision.

One solution utilizes a surgical hub including a system that isconfigured to derive information about the surgical procedure beingperformed based on data received from various data sources and thencontrol the paired modular devices accordingly. In other words, thesurgical hub is configured to infer information about the surgicalprocedure from received data and then control the modular devices pairedto the surgical hub based upon the inferred context of the surgicalprocedure. FIG. 5 illustrates a diagram of a situationally awaresurgical system 2300, in accordance with at least one aspect of thepresent disclosure. In some exemplifications, the data sources 2326include, for example, the modular devices 2302 (which can includesensors configured to detect parameters associated with the patientand/or the modular device itself), databases 2322 (e.g., an EMR databasecontaining patient records), and patient monitoring devices 2324 (e.g.,a blood pressure (BP) monitor and an electrocardiography (EKG) monitor).The surgical hub 2304 can be configured to derive the contextualinformation pertaining to the surgical procedure from the data basedupon, for example, the particular combination(s) of received data or theparticular order in which the data is received from the data sources2326. The contextual information inferred from the received data caninclude, for example, the type of surgical procedure being performed,the particular step of the surgical procedure that the surgeon isperforming, the type of tissue being operated on, or the body cavitythat is the subject of the procedure. This ability by some aspects ofthe surgical hub 2304 to derive or infer information related to thesurgical procedure from received data can be referred to as “situationalawareness.” In one exemplification, the surgical hub 2304 canincorporate a situational awareness system, which is the hardware and/orprogramming associated with the surgical hub 2304 that derivescontextual information pertaining to the surgical procedure from thereceived data.

The situational awareness system of the surgical hub 2304 can beconfigured to derive the contextual information from the data receivedfrom the data sources 2326 in a variety of different ways. In oneexemplification, the situational awareness system includes a patternrecognition system, or machine learning system (e.g., an artificialneural network), that has been trained on training data to correlatevarious inputs (e.g., data from databases 2322, patient monitoringdevices 2324, and/or modular devices 2302) to corresponding contextualinformation regarding a surgical procedure. In other words, a machinelearning system can be trained to accurately derive contextualinformation regarding a surgical procedure from the provided inputs. Inanother exemplification, the situational awareness system can include alookup table storing pre-characterized contextual information regardinga surgical procedure in association with one or more inputs (or rangesof inputs) corresponding to the contextual information. In response to aquery with one or more inputs, the lookup table can return thecorresponding contextual information for the situational awarenesssystem for controlling the modular devices 2302. In one exemplification,the contextual information received by the situational awareness systemof the surgical hub 2304 is associated with a particular controladjustment or set of control adjustments for one or more modular devices2302. In another exemplification, the situational awareness systemincludes a further machine learning system, lookup table, or other suchsystem, which generates or retrieves one or more control adjustments forone or more modular devices 2302 when provided the contextualinformation as input.

A surgical hub 2304 incorporating a situational awareness systemprovides a number of benefits for the surgical system 2300. One benefitincludes improving the interpretation of sensed and collected data,which would in turn improve the processing accuracy and/or the usage ofthe data during the course of a surgical procedure. To return to aprevious example, a situationally aware surgical hub 2304 coulddetermine what type of tissue was being operated on; therefore, when anunexpectedly high force to close the surgical instrument's end effectoris detected, the situationally aware surgical hub 2304 could correctlyramp up or ramp down the motor of the surgical instrument for the typeof tissue.

As another example, the type of tissue being operated can affect theadjustments that are made to the compression rate and load thresholds ofa surgical stapling and cutting instrument for a particular tissue gapmeasurement. A situationally aware surgical hub 2304 could infer whethera surgical procedure being performed is a thoracic or an abdominalprocedure, allowing the surgical hub 2304 to determine whether thetissue clamped by an end effector of the surgical stapling and cuttinginstrument is lung (for a thoracic procedure) or stomach (for anabdominal procedure) tissue. The surgical hub 2304 could then adjust thecompression rate and load thresholds of the surgical stapling andcutting instrument appropriately for the type of tissue.

As yet another example, the type of body cavity being operated in duringan insufflation procedure can affect the function of a smoke evacuator.A situationally aware surgical hub 2304 could determine whether thesurgical site is under pressure (by determining that the surgicalprocedure is utilizing insufflation) and determine the procedure type.As a procedure type is generally performed in a specific body cavity,the surgical hub 2304 could then control the motor rate of the smokeevacuator appropriately for the body cavity being operated in. Thus, asituationally aware surgical hub 2304 could provide a consistent amountof smoke evacuation for both thoracic and abdominal procedures.

As yet another example, the type of procedure being performed can affectthe optimal energy level at which an ultrasonic surgical instrument orradio frequency (RF) electrosurgical instrument operates. Arthroscopicprocedures, for example, require higher energy levels because the endeffector of the ultrasonic surgical instrument or RF electrosurgicalinstrument is immersed in fluid. A situationally aware surgical hub 2304could determine whether the surgical procedure is an arthroscopicprocedure. The surgical hub 2304 could then adjust the RF power level orthe ultrasonic amplitude of the generator (i.e., “energy level”) tocompensate for the fluid filled environment. Relatedly, the type oftissue being operated on can affect the optimal energy level for anultrasonic surgical instrument or RF electrosurgical instrument tooperate at. A situationally aware surgical hub 2304 could determine whattype of surgical procedure is being performed and then customize theenergy level for the ultrasonic surgical instrument or RFelectrosurgical instrument, respectively, according to the expectedtissue profile for the surgical procedure. Furthermore, a situationallyaware surgical hub 2304 can be configured to adjust the energy level forthe ultrasonic surgical instrument or RF electrosurgical instrumentthroughout the course of a surgical procedure, rather than just on aprocedure-by-procedure basis. A situationally aware surgical hub 2304could determine what step of the surgical procedure is being performedor will subsequently be performed and then update the control algorithmsfor the generator and/or ultrasonic surgical instrument or RFelectrosurgical instrument to set the energy level at a valueappropriate for the expected tissue type according to the surgicalprocedure step.

As yet another example, data can be drawn from additional data sources2326 to improve the conclusions that the surgical hub 2304 draws fromone data source 2326. A situationally aware surgical hub 2304 couldaugment data that it receives from the modular devices 2302 withcontextual information that it has built up regarding the surgicalprocedure from other data sources 2326. For example, a situationallyaware surgical hub 2304 can be configured to determine whetherhemostasis has occurred (i.e., whether bleeding at a surgical site hasstopped) according to video or image data received from a medicalimaging device. However, in some cases the video or image data can beinconclusive. Therefore, in one exemplification, the surgical hub 2304can be further configured to compare a physiologic measurement (e.g.,blood pressure sensed by a BP monitor communicably connected to thesurgical hub 2304) with the visual or image data of hemostasis (e.g.,from a medical imaging device 124 (FIG. 2) communicably coupled to thesurgical hub 2304) to make a determination on the integrity of thestaple line or tissue weld. In other words, the situational awarenesssystem of the surgical hub 2304 can consider the physiologicalmeasurement data to provide additional context in analyzing thevisualization data. The additional context can be useful when thevisualization data may be inconclusive or incomplete on its own.

Another benefit includes proactively and automatically controlling thepaired modular devices 2302 according to the particular step of thesurgical procedure that is being performed to reduce the number of timesthat medical personnel are required to interact with or control thesurgical system 2300 during the course of a surgical procedure. Forexample, a situationally aware surgical hub 2304 could proactivelyactivate the generator to which an RF electrosurgical instrument isconnected if it determines that a subsequent step of the procedurerequires the use of the instrument. Proactively activating the energysource allows the instrument to be ready for use a soon as the precedingstep of the procedure is completed.

As another example, a situationally aware surgical hub 2304 coulddetermine whether the current or subsequent step of the surgicalprocedure requires a different view or degree of magnification on thedisplay according to the feature(s) at the surgical site that thesurgeon is expected to need to view. The surgical hub 2304 could thenproactively change the displayed view (supplied by, e.g., a medicalimaging device for the visualization system 108) accordingly so that thedisplay automatically adjusts throughout the surgical procedure.

As yet another example, a situationally aware surgical hub 2304 coulddetermine which step of the surgical procedure is being performed orwill subsequently be performed and whether particular data orcomparisons between data will be required for that step of the surgicalprocedure. The surgical hub 2304 can be configured to automatically callup data screens based upon the step of the surgical procedure beingperformed, without waiting for the surgeon to ask for the particularinformation.

Another benefit includes checking for errors during the setup of thesurgical procedure or during the course of the surgical procedure. Forexample, a situationally aware surgical hub 2304 could determine whetherthe operating theater is setup properly or optimally for the surgicalprocedure to be performed. The surgical hub 2304 can be configured todetermine the type of surgical procedure being performed, retrieve thecorresponding checklists, product location, or setup needs (e.g., from amemory), and then compare the current operating theater layout to thestandard layout for the type of surgical procedure that the surgical hub2304 determines is being performed. In one exemplification, the surgicalhub 2304 can be configured to compare the list of items for theprocedure (scanned by a scanner, for example) and/or a list of devicespaired with the surgical hub 2304 to a recommended or anticipatedmanifest of items and/or devices for the given surgical procedure. Ifthere are any discontinuities between the lists, the surgical hub 2304can be configured to provide an alert indicating that a particularmodular device 2302, patient monitoring device 2324, and/or othersurgical item is missing. In one exemplification, the surgical hub 2304can be configured to determine the relative distance or position of themodular devices 2302 and patient monitoring devices 2324 via proximitysensors, for example. The surgical hub 2304 can compare the relativepositions of the devices to a recommended or anticipated layout for theparticular surgical procedure. If there are any discontinuities betweenthe layouts, the surgical hub 2304 can be configured to provide an alertindicating that the current layout for the surgical procedure deviatesfrom the recommended layout.

As another example, a situationally aware surgical hub 2304 coulddetermine whether the surgeon (or other medical personnel) was making anerror or otherwise deviating from the expected course of action duringthe course of a surgical procedure. For example, the surgical hub 2304can be configured to determine the type of surgical procedure beingperformed, retrieve the corresponding list of steps or order ofequipment usage (e.g., from a memory), and then compare the steps beingperformed or the equipment being used during the course of the surgicalprocedure to the expected steps or equipment for the type of surgicalprocedure that the surgical hub 2304 determined is being performed. Inone exemplification, the surgical hub 2304 can be configured to providean alert indicating that an unexpected action is being performed or anunexpected device is being utilized at the particular step in thesurgical procedure.

Overall, the situational awareness system for the surgical hub 2304improves surgical procedure outcomes by adjusting the surgicalinstruments (and other modular devices 2302) for the particular contextof each surgical procedure (such as adjusting to different tissue types)and validating actions during a surgical procedure. The situationalawareness system also improves surgeons' efficiency in performingsurgical procedures by automatically suggesting next steps, providingdata, and adjusting displays and other modular devices 2302 in thesurgical theater according to the specific context of the procedure.

Modular Energy System

ORs everywhere in the world are a tangled web of cords, devices, andpeople due to the amount of equipment required to perform surgicalprocedures. Surgical capital equipment tends to be a major contributorto this issue because most surgical capital equipment performs a single,specialized task. Due to their specialized nature and the surgeons'needs to utilize multiple different types of devices during the courseof a single surgical procedure, an OR may be forced to be stocked withtwo or even more pieces of surgical capital equipment, such as energygenerators. Each of these pieces of surgical capital equipment must beindividually plugged into a power source and may be connected to one ormore other devices that are being passed between OR personnel, creatinga tangle of cords that must be navigated. Another issue faced in modernORs is that each of these specialized pieces of surgical capitalequipment has its own user interface and must be independentlycontrolled from the other pieces of equipment within the OR. Thiscreates complexity in properly controlling multiple different devices inconnection with each other and forces users to be trained on andmemorize different types of user interfaces (which may further changebased upon the task or surgical procedure being performed, in additionto changing between each piece of capital equipment). This cumbersome,complex process can necessitate the need for even more individuals to bepresent within the OR and can create danger if multiple devices are notproperly controlled in tandem with each other. Therefore, consolidatingsurgical capital equipment technology into singular systems that areable to flexibly address surgeons' needs to reduce the footprint ofsurgical capital equipment within ORs would simplify the userexperience, reduce the amount of clutter in ORs, and preventdifficulties and dangers associated with simultaneously controllingmultiple pieces of capital equipment. Further, making such systemsexpandable or customizable would allow for new technology to beconveniently incorporated into existing surgical systems, obviating theneed to replace entire surgical systems or for OR personnel to learn newuser interfaces or equipment controls with each new technology.

As described in FIGS. 1-3, a surgical hub 106 can be configured tointerchangeably receive a variety of modules, which can in turninterface with surgical devices (e.g., a surgical instrument or a smokeevacuator) or provide various other functions (e.g., communications). Inone aspect, a surgical hub 106 can be embodied as a modular energysystem 2000, which is illustrated in connection with FIGS. 6-12. Themodular energy system 2000 can include a variety of different modules2001 that are connectable together in a stacked configuration. In oneaspect, the modules 2001 can be both physically and communicably coupledtogether when stacked or otherwise connected together into a singularassembly. Further, the modules 2001 can be interchangeably connectabletogether in different combinations or arrangements. In one aspect, eachof the modules 2001 can include a consistent or universal array ofconnectors disposed along their upper and lower surfaces, therebyallowing any module 2001 to be connected to another module 2001 in anyarrangement (except that, in some aspects, a particular module type,such as the header module 2002, can be configured to serve as theuppermost module within the stack, for example). In an alternativeaspect, the modular energy system 2000 can include a housing that isconfigured to receive and retain the modules 2001, as is shown in FIG.3. The modular energy system 2000 can also include a variety ofdifferent components or accessories that are also connectable to orotherwise associatable with the modules 2001. In another aspect, themodular energy system 2000 can be embodied as a generator module 140(FIG. 3) of a surgical hub 106. In yet another aspect, the modularenergy system 2000 can be a distinct system from a surgical hub 106. Insuch aspects, the modular energy system 2000 can be communicablycouplable to a surgical hub 206 for transmitting and/or receiving datatherebetween.

The modular energy system 2000 can be assembled from a variety ofdifferent modules 2001, some examples of which are illustrated in FIG.6. Each of the different types of modules 2001 can provide differentfunctionality, thereby allowing the modular energy system 2000 to beassembled into different configurations to customize the functions andcapabilities of the modular energy system 2000 by customizing themodules 2001 that are included in each modular energy system 2000. Themodules 2001 of the modular energy system 2000 can include, for example,a header module 2002 (which can include a display screen 2006), anenergy module 2004, a technology module 2040, and a visualization module2042. In the depicted aspect, the header module 2002 is configured toserve as the top or uppermost module within the modular energy systemstack and can thus lack connectors along its top surface. In anotheraspect, the header module 2002 can be configured to be positioned at thebottom or the lowermost module within the modular energy system stackand can thus lack connectors along its bottom surface. In yet anotheraspect, the header module 2002 can be configured to be positioned at anintermediate position within the modular energy system stack and canthus include connectors along both its bottom and top surfaces. Theheader module 2002 can be configured to control the system-wide settingsof each module 2001 and component connected thereto through physicalcontrols 2011 thereon and/or a graphical user interface (GUI) 2008rendered on the display screen 2006. Such settings could include theactivation of the modular energy system 2000, the volume of alerts, thefootswitch settings, the settings icons, the appearance or configurationof the user interface, the surgeon profile logged into the modularenergy system 2000, and/or the type of surgical procedure beingperformed. The header module 2002 can also be configured to providecommunications, processing, and/or power for the modules 2001 that areconnected to the header module 2002. The energy module 2004, which canalso be referred to as a generator module 140 (FIG. 3), can beconfigured to generate one or multiple energy modalities for drivingelectrosurgical and/or ultrasonic surgical instruments connectedthereto. The technology module 2040 can be configured to provideadditional or expanded control algorithms (e.g., electrosurgical orultrasonic control algorithms for controlling the energy output of theenergy module 2004). The visualization module 2042 can be configured tointerface with visualization devices (i.e., scopes) and accordinglyprovide increased visualization capabilities.

The modular energy system 2000 can further include a variety ofaccessories 2029 that are connectable to the modules 2001 forcontrolling the functions thereof or that are otherwise configured towork on conjunction with the modular energy system 2000. The accessories2029 can include, for example, a single-pedal footswitch 2032, adual-pedal footswitch 2034, and a cart 2030 for supporting the modularenergy system 2000 thereon. The footswitches 2032, 2034 can beconfigured to control the activation or function of particular energymodalities output by the energy module 2004, for example.

By utilizing modular components, the depicted modular energy system 2000provides a surgical platform that grows with the availability oftechnology and is customizable to the needs of the facility and/orsurgeons. Further, the modular energy system 2000 supports combo devices(e.g., dual electrosurgical and ultrasonic energy generators) andsupports software-driven algorithms for customized tissue effects. Stillfurther, the surgical system architecture reduces the capital footprintby combining multiple technologies critical for surgery into a singlesystem.

The various modular components utilizable in connection with the modularenergy system 2000 can include monopolar energy generators, bipolarenergy generators, dual electrosurgical/ultrasonic energy generators,display screens, and various other modules and/or other components, someof which are also described above in connection with FIGS. 1-3.

Referring now to FIG. 7A, the header module 2002 can, in some aspects,include a display screen 2006 that renders a GUI 2008 for relayinginformation regarding the modules 2001 connected to the header module2002. In some aspects, the GUI 2008 of the display screen 2006 canprovide a consolidated point of control of all of the modules 2001making up the particular configuration of the modular energy system2000. Various aspects of the GUI 2008 are discussed in fuller detailbelow in connection with FIG. 12. In alternative aspects, the headermodule 2002 can lack the display screen 2006 or the display screen 2006can be detachably connected to the housing 2010 of the header module2002. In such aspects, the header module 2002 can be communicablycouplable to an external system that is configured to display theinformation generated by the modules 2001 of the modular energy system2000. For example, in robotic surgical applications, the modular energysystem 2000 can be communicably couplable to a robotic cart or roboticcontrol console, which is configured to display the informationgenerated by the modular energy system 2000 to the operator of therobotic surgical system. As another example, the modular energy system2000 can be communicably couplable to a mobile display that can becarried or secured to a surgical staff member for viewing thereby. Inyet another example, the modular energy system 2000 can be communicablycouplable to a surgical hub 2100 or another computer system that caninclude a display 2104, as is illustrated in FIG. 11. In aspectsutilizing a user interface that is separate from or otherwise distinctfrom the modular energy system 2000, the user interface can bewirelessly connectable with the modular energy system 2000 as a whole orone or more modules 2001 thereof such that the user interface candisplay information from the connected modules 2001 thereon.

Referring still to FIG. 7A, the energy module 2004 can include a portassembly 2012 including a number of different ports configured todeliver different energy modalities to corresponding surgicalinstruments that are connectable thereto. In the particular aspectillustrated in FIGS. 6-12, the port assembly 2012 includes a bipolarport 2014, a first monopolar port 2016 a, a second monopolar port 2016b, a neutral electrode port 2018 (to which a monopolar return pad isconnectable), and a combination energy port 2020. However, thisparticular combination of ports is simply provided for illustrativepurposes and alternative combinations of ports and/or energy modalitiesmay be possible for the port assembly 2012.

As noted above, the modular energy system 2000 can be assembled intodifferent configurations. Further, the different configurations of themodular energy system 2000 can also be utilizable for different surgicalprocedure types and/or different tasks. For example, FIGS. 7A and 7Billustrate a first illustrative configuration of the modular energysystem 2000 including a header module 2002 (including a display screen2006) and an energy module 2004 connected together. Such a configurationcan be suitable for laparoscopic and open surgical procedures, forexample.

FIG. 8A illustrates a second illustrative configuration of the modularenergy system 2000 including a header module 2002 (including a displayscreen 2006), a first energy module 2004 a, and a second energy module2004 b connected together. By stacking two energy modules 2004 a, 2004b, the modular energy system 2000 can provide a pair of port assemblies2012 a, 2012 b for expanding the array of energy modalities deliverableby the modular energy system 2000 from the first configuration. Thesecond configuration of the modular energy system 2000 can accordinglyaccommodate more than one bipolar/monopolar electrosurgical instrument,more than two bipolar/monopolar electrosurgical instruments, and so on.Such a configuration can be suitable for particularly complexlaparoscopic and open surgical procedures. FIG. 8B illustrates a thirdillustrative configuration that is similar to the second configuration,except that the header module 2002 lacks a display screen 2006. Thisconfiguration can be suitable for robotic surgical applications ormobile display applications, as noted above.

FIG. 9 illustrates a fourth illustrative configuration of the modularenergy system 2000 including a header module 2002 (including a displayscreen 2006), a first energy module 2004 a, a second energy module 2004b, and a technology module 2040 connected together. Such a configurationcan be suitable for surgical applications where particularly complex orcomputation-intensive control algorithms are required. Alternatively,the technology module 2040 can be a newly released module thatsupplements or expands the capabilities of previously released modules(such as the energy module 2004).

FIG. 10 illustrates a fifth illustrative configuration of the modularenergy system 2000 including a header module 2002 (including a displayscreen 2006), a first energy module 2004 a, a second energy module 2004b, a technology module 2040, and a visualization module 2042 connectedtogether. Such a configuration can be suitable for endoscopic proceduresby providing a dedicated surgical display 2044 for relaying the videofeed from the scope coupled to the visualization module 2042. It shouldbe noted that the configurations illustrated in FIGS. 7A-11 anddescribed above are provided simply to illustrate the various conceptsof the modular energy system 2000 and should not be interpreted to limitthe modular energy system 2000 to the particular aforementionedconfigurations.

As noted above, the modular energy system 2000 can be communicablycouplable to an external system, such as a surgical hub 2100 asillustrated in FIG. 11. Such external systems can include a displayscreen 2104 for displaying a visual feed from an endoscope (or a cameraor another such visualization device) and/or data from the modularenergy system 2000. Such external systems can also include a computersystem 2102 for performing calculations or otherwise analyzing datagenerated or provided by the modular energy system 2000, controlling thefunctions or modes of the modular energy system 2000, and/or relayingdata to a cloud computing system or another computer system. Suchexternal systems could also coordinate actions between multiple modularenergy systems 2000 and/or other surgical systems (e.g., a visualizationsystem 108 and/or a robotic system 110 as described in connection withFIGS. 1 and 2).

Referring now to FIG. 12, in some aspects, the header module 2002 caninclude or support a display 2006 configured for displaying a GUI 2008,as noted above. The display screen 2006 can include a touchscreen forreceiving input from users in addition to displaying information. Thecontrols displayed on the GUI 2008 can correspond to the module(s) 2001that are connected to the header module 2002. In some aspects, differentportions or areas of the GUI 2008 can correspond to particular modules2001. For example, a first portion or area of the GUI 2008 cancorrespond to a first module and a second portion or area of the GUI2008 can correspond to a second module. As different and/or additionalmodules 2001 are connected to the modular energy system stack, the GUI2008 can adjust to accommodate the different and/or additional controlsfor each newly added module 2001 or remove controls for each module 2001that is removed. Each portion of the display corresponding to aparticular module connected to the header module 2002 can displaycontrols, data, user prompts, and/or other information corresponding tothat module. For example, in FIG. 12, a first or upper portion 2052 ofthe depicted GUI 2008 displays controls and data associated with anenergy module 2004 that is connected to the header module 2002. Inparticular, the first portion 2052 of the GUI 2008 for the energy module2004 provides first widget 2056 a corresponding to the bipolar port2014, a second widget 2056 b corresponding to the first monopolar port2016 a, a third widget 2056 c corresponding to the second monopolar port2016 b, and a fourth widget 2056 d corresponding to the combinationenergy port 2020. Each of these widgets 2056 a-d provides data relatedto its corresponding port of the port assembly 2012 and controls forcontrolling the modes and other features of the energy modalitydelivered by the energy module 2004 through the respective port of theport assembly 2012. For example, the widgets 2056 a-d can be configuredto display the power level of the surgical instrument connected to therespective port, change the operational mode of the surgical instrumentconnected to the respective port (e.g., change a surgical instrumentfrom a first power level to a second power level and/or change amonopolar surgical instrument from a “spray” mode to a “blend” mode),and so on.

In one aspect, the header module 2002 can include various physicalcontrols 2011 in addition to or in lieu of the GUI 2008. Such physicalcontrols 2011 can include, for example, a power button that controls theapplication of power to each module 2001 that is connected to the headermodule 2002 in the modular energy system 2000. Alternatively, the powerbutton can be displayed as part of the GUI 2008. Therefore, the headermodule 2002 can serve as a single point of contact and obviate the needto individually activate and deactivate each individual module 2001 fromwhich the modular energy system 2000 is constructed.

In one aspect, the header module 2002 can display still images, videos,animations, and/or information associated with the surgical modules 2001of which the modular energy system 2000 is constructed or the surgicaldevices that are communicably coupled to the modular energy system 2000.The still images and/or videos displayed by the header module 2002 canbe received from an endoscope or another visualization device that iscommunicably coupled to the modular energy system 2000. The animationsand/or information of the GUI 2008 can be overlaid on or displayedadjacent to the images or video feed.

In one aspect, the modules 2001 other than the header module 2002 can beconfigured to likewise relay information to users. For example, theenergy module 2004 can include light assemblies 2015 disposed about eachof the ports of the port assembly 2012. The light assemblies 2015 can beconfigured to relay information to the user regarding the port accordingto their color or state (e.g., flashing). For example, the lightassemblies 2015 can change from a first color to a second color when aplug is fully seated within the respective port. In one aspect, thecolor or state of the light assemblies 2015 can be controlled by theheader module 2002. For example, the header module 2002 can cause thelight assembly 2015 of each port to display a color corresponding to thecolor display for the port on the GUI 2008.

FIG. 13 is a block diagram of a stand-alone hub configuration of amodular energy system 3000, in accordance with at least one aspect ofthe present disclosure and FIG. 14 is a block diagram of a hubconfiguration of a modular energy system 3000 integrated with a surgicalcontrol system 3010, in accordance with at least one aspect of thepresent disclosure. As depicted in FIGS. 13 and 14, the modular energysystem 3000 can be either utilized as stand-alone units or integratedwith a surgical control system 3010 that controls and/or receives datafrom one or more surgical hub units. In the examples illustrated inFIGS. 13 and 14, the integrated header/UI module 3002 of the modularenergy system 3000 includes a header module and a UI module integratedtogether as a singular module. In other aspects, the header module andthe UI module can be provided as separate components that arecommunicatively coupled though a data bus 3008.

As illustrated in FIG. 13, an example of a stand-alone modular energysystem 3000 includes an integrated header module/user interface (UI)module 3002 coupled to an energy module 3004. Power and data aretransmitted between the integrated header/UI module 3002 and the energymodule 3004 through a power interface 3006 and a data interface 3008.For example, the integrated header/UI module 3002 can transmit variouscommands to the energy module 3004 through the data interface 3008. Suchcommands can be based on user inputs from the UI. As a further example,power may be transmitted to the energy module 3004 through the powerinterface 3006.

In FIG. 14, a surgical hub configuration includes a modular energysystem 3000 integrated with a control system 3010 and an interfacesystem 3022 for managing, among other things, data and powertransmission to and/or from the modular energy system 3000. The modularenergy system depicted in FIG. 14 includes an integrated headermodule/UI module 3002, a first energy module 3004, and a second energymodule 3012. In one example, a data transmission pathway is establishedbetween the system control unit 3024 of the control system 3010 and thesecond energy module 3012 through the first energy module 3004 and theheader/UI module 3002 through a data interface 3008. In addition, apower pathway extends between the integrated header/UI module 3002 andthe second energy module 3012 through the first energy module 3004through a power interface 3006. In other words, in one aspect, the firstenergy module 3004 is configured to function as a power and datainterface between the second energy module 3012 and the integratedheader/UI module 3002 through the power interface 3006 and the datainterface 3008. This arrangement allows the modular energy system 3000to expand by seamlessly connecting additional energy modules to energymodules 3004, 3012 that are already connected to the integratedheader/UI module 3002 without the need for dedicated power and energyinterfaces within the integrated header/UI module 3002.

The system control unit 3024, which may be referred to herein as acontrol circuit, control logic, microprocessor, microcontroller, logic,or FPGA, or various combinations thereof, is coupled to the systeminterface 3022 via energy interface 3026 and instrument communicationinterface 3028. The system interface 3022 is coupled to the first energymodule 3004 via a first energy interface 3014 and a first instrumentcommunication interface 3016. The system interface 3022 is coupled tothe second energy module 3012 via a second energy interface 3018 and asecond instrument communication interface 3020. As additional modules,such as additional energy modules, are stacked in the modular energysystem 3000, additional energy and communications interfaces areprovided between the system interface 3022 and the additional modules.

The energy modules 3004, 3012 are connectable to a hub and can beconfigured to generate electrosurgical energy (e.g., bipolar ormonopolar), ultrasonic energy, or a combination thereof (referred toherein as an “advanced energy” module) for a variety of energy surgicalinstruments. Generally, the energy modules 3004, 3012 includehardware/software interfaces, an ultrasonic controller, an advancedenergy RF controller, bipolar RF controller, and control algorithmsexecuted by the controller that receives outputs from the controller andcontrols the operation of the various energy modules 3004, 3012accordingly. In various aspects of the present disclosure, thecontrollers described herein may be implemented as a control circuit,control logic, microprocessor, microcontroller, logic, or FPGA, orvarious combinations thereof.

FIGS. 15-17 are block diagrams of various modular energy systemsconnected together to form a hub, in accordance with at least one aspectof the present disclosure. FIGS. 15-17 depict various diagrams (e.g.,circuit or control diagrams) of hub modules. The modular energy system3000 includes multiple energy modules 3004 (FIG. 16), 3012 (FIG. 17), aheader module 3150 (FIG. 17), a UI module 3030 (FIG. 15), and acommunications module 3032 (FIG. 15), in accordance with at least oneaspect of the present disclosure. The UI module 3030 includes a touchscreen 3046 displaying various relevant information and various usercontrols for controlling one or more parameters of the modular energysystem 3000. The UI module 3030 is attached to the top header module3150, but is separately housed so that it can be manipulatedindependently of the header module 3150. For example, the UI module 3030can be picked up by a user and/or reattached to the header module 3150.Additionally, or alternatively, the UI module 3030 can be slightly movedrelative to the header module 3150 to adjust its position and/ororientation. For example, the UI module 3030 can be tilted and/orrotated relative to the header module 3150.

In some aspects, the various hub modules can include light piping aroundthe physical ports to communicate instrument status and also connecton-screen elements to corresponding instruments. Light piping is oneexample of an illumination technique that may be employed to alert auser to a status of a surgical instrument attached/connected to aphysical port. In one aspect, illuminating a physical port with aparticular light directs a user to connect a surgical instrument to thephysical port. In another example, illuminating a physical port with aparticular light alerts a user to an error related an existingconnection with a surgical instrument.

Turning to FIG. 15, there is shown a block diagram of a user interface(UI) module 3030 coupled to a communications module 3032 via apass-through hub connector 3034, in accordance with at least one aspectof the present disclosure. The UI module 3030 is provided as a separatecomponent from a header module 3150 (shown in FIG. 17) and may becommunicatively coupled to the header module 3150 via a communicationsmodule 3032, for example. In one aspect, the UI module 3030 can includea UI processor 3040 that is configured to represent declarativevisualizations and behaviors received from other connected modules, aswell as perform other centralized UI functionality, such as systemconfiguration (e.g., language selection, module associations, etc.). TheUI processor 3040 can be, for example, a processor or system on module(SOM) running a framework such as Qt, .NET WPF, Web server, or similar.

In the illustrated example, the UI module 3030 includes a touchscreen3046, a liquid crystal display 3048 (LCD), and audio output 3052 (e.g.,speaker, buzzer). The UI processor 3040 is configured to receivetouchscreen inputs from a touch controller 3044 coupled between thetouch screen 3046 and the UI processor 3040. The UI processor 3040 isconfigured to output visual information to the LCD display 3048 and tooutput audio information the audio output 3052 via an audio amplifier3050. The UI processor 3040 is configured to interface to thecommunications module 3032 via a switch 3042 coupled to the pass-throughhub connector 3034 to receive, process, and forward data from the sourcedevice to the destination device and control data communicationtherebetween. DC power is supplied to the UI module 3030 via DC/DCconverter modules 3054. The DC power is passed through the pass-throughhub connector 3034 to the communications module 3032 through the powerbus 3006. Data is passed through the pass-through hub connector 3034 tothe communications module 3032 through the data bus 3008. Switches 3042,3056 receive, process, and forward data from the source device to thedestination device.

Continuing with FIG. 15, the communications module 3032, as well asvarious surgical hubs and/or surgical systems can include a gateway 3058that is configured to shuttle select traffic (i.e., data) between twodisparate networks (e.g., an internal network and/or a hospital network)that are running different protocols. The communications module 3032includes a first pass-through hub connector 3036 to couple thecommunications module 3032 to other modules. In the illustrated example,the communications module 3032 is coupled to the UI module 3030. Thecommunications module 3032 is configured to couple to other modules(e.g., energy modules) via a second pass-through hub connector 3038 tocouple the communications module 3032 to other modules via a switch 3056disposed between the first and second pass-through hub connectors 3036,3038 to receive, process, and forward data from the source device to thedestination device and control data communication therebetween. Theswitch 3056 also is coupled to a gateway 3058 to communicate informationbetween external communications ports and the UI module 3030 and otherconnected modules. The gateway 3058 may be coupled to variouscommunications modules such as, for example, an Ethernet module 3060 tocommunicate to a hospital or other local network, a universal serial bus(USB) module 3062, a WiFi module 3064, and a Bluetooth module 3066,among others. The communications modules may be physical boards locatedwithin the communications module 3032 or may be a port to couple toremote communications boards.

In some aspects, all of the modules (i.e., detachable hardware) arecontrolled by a single UI module 3030 that is disposed on or integral toa header module. FIG. 17 shows a stand alone header module 3150 to whichthe UI module 3030 can be attached. FIGS. 13, 14, and 18 show anintegrated header/UI Module 3002. Returning now to FIG. 15, in variousaspects, by consolidating all of the modules into a single, responsiveUI module 3002, the system provides a simpler way to control and monitormultiple pieces of equipment at once. This approach drastically reducesfootprint and complexity in an operating room (OR).

Turning to FIG. 16, there is shown a block diagram of an energy module3004, in accordance with at least one aspect of the present disclosure.The communications module 3032 (FIG. 15) is coupled to the energy module3004 via the second pass-through hub connector 3038 of thecommunications module 3032 and a first pass-through hub connector 3074of the energy module 3004. The energy module 3004 may be coupled toother modules, such as a second energy module 3012 shown in FIG. 17, viaa second pass-through hub connector 3078. Turning back to FIG. 16, aswitch 3076 disposed between the first and second pass-through hubconnectors 3074, 3078 receives, processes, and forwards data from thesource device to the destination device and controls data communicationtherebetween. Data is received and transmitted through the data bus3008. The energy module 3032 includes a controller 3082 to controlvarious communications and processing functions of the energy module3004.

DC power is received and transmitted by the energy module 3004 throughthe power bus 3006. The power bus 3006 is coupled to DC/DC convertermodules 3138 to supply power to adjustable regulators 3084, 3107 andisolated DC/DC converter ports 3096, 3112, 3132.

In one aspect, the energy module 3004 can include an ultrasonic widebandamplifier 3086, which in one aspect may be a linear class H amplifierthat is capable of generating arbitrary waveforms and drive harmonictransducers at low total harmonic distortion (THD) levels. Theultrasonic wideband amplifier 3086 is fed by a buck adjustable regulator3084 to maximize efficiency and controlled by the controller 3082, whichmay be implemented as a digital signal processor (DSP) via a directdigital synthesizer (DDS), for example. The DDS can either be embeddedin the DSP or implemented in the field-programmable gate array (FPGA),for example. The controller 3082 controls the ultrasonic widebandamplifier 3086 via a digital-to-analog converter 3106 (DAC). The outputof the ultrasonic wideband amplifier 3086 is fed to an ultrasonic powertransformer 3088, which is coupled to an ultrasonic energy outputportion of an advanced energy receptacle 3100. Ultrasonic voltage (V)and current (I) feedback (FB) signals, which may be employed to computeultrasonic impedance, are fed back to the controller 3082 via anultrasonic VI FB transformer 3092 through an input portion of theadvanced energy receptacle 3100. The ultrasonic voltage and currentfeedback signals are routed back to the controller 3082 through ananalog-to-digital converter 3102 (A/D). Also coupled to the controller3082 through the advanced energy receptacle 3100 is the isolated DC/DCconverter port 3096, which receives DC power from the power bus 3006,and a medium bandwidth data port 3098.

In one aspect, the energy module 3004 can include a wideband RF poweramplifier 3108, which in one aspect may be a linear class H amplifierthat is capable of generating arbitrary waveforms and drive RF loads ata range of output frequencies. The wideband RF power amplifier 3108 isfed by an adjustable buck regulator 3107 to maximize efficiency andcontrolled by the controller 3082, which may be implemented as DSP via aDDS. The DDS can either be embedded in the DSP or implemented in theFPGA, for example. The controller 3082 controls the wideband RFamplifier 3086 via a DAC 3122. The output of the wideband RF poweramplifier 3108 can be fed through RF selection relays 3124. The RFselection relays 3124 are configured to receive and selectively transmitthe output signal of the wideband RF power amplifier 3108 to variousother components of the energy module 3004. In one aspect, the outputsignal of the wideband RF power amplifier 3108 can be fed through RFselection relays 3124 to an RF power transformer 3110, which is coupledto an RF output portion of a bipolar RF energy receptacle 3118. BipolarRF voltage (V) and current (I) feedback (FB) signals, which may beemployed to compute RF impedance, are fed back to the controller 3082via an RF VI FB transformer 3114 through an input portion of the bipolarRF energy receptacle 3118. The RF voltage and current feedback signalsare routed back to the controller 3082 through an A/D 3120. Also coupledto the controller 3082 through the bipolar RF energy receptacle 3118 isthe isolated DC/DC converter port 3112, which receives DC power from thepower bus 3006, and a low bandwidth data port 3116.

As described above, in one aspect, the energy module 3004 can include RFselection relays 3124 driven by the controller 3082 (e.g., FPGA) atrated coil current for actuation and can also be set to a lowerhold-current via pulse-width modulation (PWM) to limit steady-statepower dissipation. Switching of the RF selection relays 3124 is achievedwith force guided (safety) relays and the status of the contact state issensed by the controller 3082 as a mitigation for any single faultconditions. In one aspect, the RF selection relays 3124 are configuredto be in a first state, where an output RF signal received from an RFsource, such as the wideband RF power amplifier 3108, is transmitted toa first component of the energy module 3004, such as the RF powertransformer 3110 of the bipolar energy receptacle 3118. In a secondaspect, the RF selection relays 3124 are configured to be in a secondstate, where an output RF signal received from an RF source, such as thewideband RF power amplifier 3108, is transmitted to a second component,such as an RF power transformer 3128 of a monopolar energy receptacle3136, described in more detail below. In a general aspect, the RFselection relays 3124 are configured to be driven by the controller 3082to switch between a plurality of states, such as the first state and thesecond state, to transmit the output RF signal received from the RFpower amplifier 3108 between different energy receptacles of the energymodule 3004.

As described above, the output of the wideband RF power amplifier 3108can also fed through the RF selection relays 3124 to the wideband RFpower transformer 3128 of the RF monopolar receptacle 3136. Monopolar RFvoltage (V) and current (I) feedback (FB) signals, which may be employedto compute RF impedance, are fed back to the controller 3082 via an RFVI FB transformer 3130 through an input portion of the monopolar RFenergy receptacle 3136. The RF voltage and current feedback signals arerouted back to the controller 3082 through an A/D 3126. Also coupled tothe controller 3082 through the monopolar RF energy receptacle 3136 isthe isolated DC/DC converter port 3132, which receives DC power from thepower bus 3006, and a low bandwidth data port 3134.

The output of the wideband RF power amplifier 3108 can also fed throughthe RF selection relays 3124 to the wideband RF power transformer 3090of the advanced energy receptacle 3100. RF voltage (V) and current (I)feedback (FB) signals, which may be employed to compute RF impedance,are fed back to the controller 3082 via an RF VI FB transformer 3094through an input portion of the advanced energy receptacle 3100. The RFvoltage and current feedback signals are routed back to the controller3082 through an A/D 3104.

FIG. 17 is a block diagram of a second energy module 3012 coupled to aheader module 3150, in accordance with at least one aspect of thepresent disclosure. The first energy module 3004 shown in FIG. 16 iscoupled to the second energy module 3012 shown in FIG. 17 by couplingthe second pass-through hub connector 3078 of the first energy module3004 to a first pass-through hub connector 3074 of the second energymodule 3012. In one aspect, the second energy module 3012 can a similarenergy module to the first energy module 3004, as is illustrated in FIG.17. In another aspect, the second energy module 2012 can be a differentenergy module compared to the first energy module, such as an energymodule illustrated in FIG. 19, described in more detail. The addition ofthe second energy module 3012 to the first energy module 3004 addsfunctionality to the modular energy system 3000.

The second energy module 3012 is coupled to the header module 3150 byconnecting the pass-through hub connector 3078 to the pass-through hubconnector 3152 of the header module 3150. In one aspect, the headermodule 3150 can include a header processor 3158 that is configured tomanage a power button function 3166, software upgrades through theupgrade USB module 3162, system time management, and gateway to externalnetworks (i.e., hospital or the cloud) via an Ethernet module 3164 thatmay be running different protocols. Data is received by the headermodule 3150 through the pass-through hub connector 3152. The headerprocessor 3158 also is coupled to a switch 3160 to receive, process, andforward data from the source device to the destination device andcontrol data communication therebetween. The header processor 3158 alsois coupled to an OTS power supply 3156 coupled to a mains power entrymodule 3154.

FIG. 18 is a block diagram of a header/user interface (UI) module 3002for a hub, such as the header module depicted in FIG. 15, in accordancewith at least one aspect of the present disclosure. The header/UI module3002 includes a header power module 3172, a header wireless module 3174,a header USB module 3176, a header audio/screen module 3178, a headernetwork module 3180 (e.g., Ethernet), a backplane connector 3182, aheader standby processor module 3184, and a header footswitch module3186. These functional modules interact to provide the header/UI 3002functionality. A header/UI controller 3170 controls each of thefunctional modules and the communication therebetween including safetycritical control logic modules 3230, 3232 coupled between the header/UIcontroller 3170 and an isolated communications module 3234 coupled tothe header footswitch module 3186. A security coprocessor 3188 iscoupled to the header/UI controller 3170.

The header power module 3172 includes a mains power entry module 3190coupled to an OTS power supply unit 3192 (PSU). Low voltage directcurrent (e.g., 5V) standby power is supplied to the header/UI module3002 and other modules through a low voltage power bus 3198 from the OTSPSU 3192. High voltage direct current (e.g., 60V) is supplied to theheader/UI module 3002 through a high voltage bus 3200 from the OTS PSU3192. The high voltage DC supplies DC/DC converter modules 3196 as wellas isolated DC/DC converter modules 3236. A standby processor 3204 ofthe header/standby module 3184 provides a PSU/enable signal 3202 to theOTS PSU 3192.

The header wireless module 3174 includes a WiFi module 3212 and aBluetooth module 3214. Both the WiFi module 3212 and the Bluetoothmodule 3214 are coupled to the header/UI controller 3170. The Bluetoothmodule 3214 is used to connect devices without using cables and theWi-Fi module 3212 provides high-speed access to networks such as theInternet and can be employed to create a wireless network that can linkmultiple devices such as, for examples, multiple energy modules or othermodules and surgical instruments, among other devices located in theoperating room. Bluetooth is a wireless technology standard that is usedto exchange data over short distances, such as, less than 30 feet.

The header USB module 3176 includes a USB port 3216 coupled to theheader/UI controller 3170. The USB module 3176 provides a standard cableconnection interface for modules and other electronics devices overshort-distance digital data communications. The USB module 3176 allowsmodules comprising USB devices to be connected to each other with andtransfer digital data over USB cables.

The header audio/screen module 3178 includes a touchscreen 3220 coupledto a touch controller 3218. The touch controller 3218 is coupled to theheader/UI controller 3170 to read inputs from the touchscreen 3220. Theheader/UI controller 3170 drives an LCD display 3224 through adisplay/port video output signal 3222. The header/UI controller 3170 iscoupled to an audio amplifier 3226 to drive one or more speakers 3228.

In one aspect, the header/UI module 3002 provides a touchscreen 3220user interface configured to control modules connected to one control orheader module 3002 in a modular energy system 3000. The touchscreen 3220can be used to maintain a single point of access for the user to adjustall modules connected within the modular energy system 3000. Additionalhardware modules (e.g., a smoke evacuation module) can appear at thebottom of the user interface LCD display 3224 when they become connectedto the header/UI module 3002, and can disappear from the user interfaceLCD display 3224 when they are disconnected from the header/UI module3002.

Further, the user touchscreen 3220 can provide access to the settings ofmodules attached to the modular energy system 3000. Further, the userinterface LCD display 3224 arrangement can be configured to changeaccording to the number and types of modules that are connected to theheader/UI module 3002. For example, a first user interface can bedisplayed on the LCD display 3224 for a first application where oneenergy module and one smoke evacuation module are connected to theheader/UI module 3002, and a second user interface can be displayed onthe LCD display 3224 for a second application where two energy modulesare connected to the header/UI module 3002. Further, the user interfacecan alter its display on the LCD display 3224 as modules are connectedand disconnected from the modular energy system 3000.

In one aspect, the header/UI module 3002 provides a user interface LCDdisplay 3224 configured to display on the LCD display coloringcorresponds to the port lighting. In one aspect, the coloring of theinstrument panel and the LED light around its corresponding port will bethe same or otherwise correspond with each other. Each color can, forexample, convey a unique meaning. This way, the user will be able toquickly assess which instrument the indication is referring to and thenature of the indication. Further, indications regarding an instrumentcan be represented by the changing of color of the LED light linedaround its corresponding port and the coloring of its module. Stillfurther, the message on screen and hardware/software port alignment canalso serve to convey that an action must be taken on the hardware, noton the interface. In various aspects, all other instruments can be usedwhile alerts are occurring on other instruments. This allows the user tobe able to quickly assess which instrument the indication is referringto and the nature of the indication.

In one aspect, the header/UI module 3002 provides a user interfacescreen configured to display on the LCD display 3224 to presentprocedure options to a user. In one aspect, the user interface can beconfigured to present the user with a series of options (which can bearranged, e.g., from broad to specific). After each selection is made,the modular energy system 3000 presents the next level until allselections are complete. These settings could be managed locally andtransferred via a secondary means (such as a USB thumb drive).Alternatively, the settings could be managed via a portal andautomatically distributed to all connected systems in the hospital.

The procedure options can include, for example, a list of factory presetoptions categorized by specialty, procedure, and type of procedure. Uponcompleting a user selection, the header module can be configured to setany connected instruments to factory-preset settings for that specificprocedure. The procedure options can also include, for example, a listof surgeons, then subsequently, the specialty, procedure, and type. Oncea user completes a selection, the system may suggest the surgeon'spreferred instruments and set those instrument's settings according tothe surgeon's preference (i.e., a profile associated with each surgeonstoring the surgeon's preferences).

In one aspect, the header/UI module 3002 provides a user interfacescreen configured to display on the LCD display 3224 critical instrumentsettings. In one aspect, each instrument panel displayed on the LCDdisplay 3224 of the user interface corresponds, in placement andcontent, to the instruments plugged into the modular energy system 3000.When a user taps on a panel, it can expand to reveal additional settingsand options for that specific instrument and the rest of the screen can,for example, darken or otherwise be de-emphasized.

In one aspect, the header/UI module 3002 provides an instrument settingspanel of the user interface configured to comprise/display controls thatare unique to an instrument and allow the user to increase or decreasethe intensity of its output, toggle certain functions, pair it withsystem accessories like a footswitch connected to header footswitchmodule 3186, access advanced instrument settings, and find additionalinformation about the instrument. In one aspect, the user can tap/selectan “Advanced Settings” control to expand the advanced settings drawerdisplayed on the user interface LCD display 3224. In one aspect, theuser can then tap/select an icon at the top right-hand corner of theinstrument settings panel or tap anywhere outside of the panel and thepanel will scale back down to its original state. In these aspects, theuser interface is configured to display on the LCD display 3224 only themost critical instrument settings, such as power level and power mode,on the ready/home screen for each instrument panel. This is to maximizethe size and readability of the system from a distance. In some aspects,the panels and the settings within can be scaled proportionally to thenumber of instruments connected to the system to further improvereadability. As more instruments are connected, the panels scale toaccommodate a greater amount of information.

The header network module 3180 includes a plurality of networkinterfaces 3264, 3266, 3268 (e.g., Ethernet) to network the header/UImodule 3002 to other modules of the modular energy system 3000. In theillustrated example, one network interface 3264 may be a 3rd partynetwork interface, another network interface 3266 may be a hospitalnetwork interface, and yet another network interface 3268 may be locatedon the backplane network interface connector 3182.

The header standby processor module 3184 includes a standby processor3204 coupled to an On/Off switch 3210. The standby processor 3204conducts an electrical continuity test by checking to see if electricalcurrent flows in a continuity loop 3206. The continuity test isperformed by placing a small voltage across the continuity loop 3206. Aserial bus 3208 couples the standby processor 3204 to the backplaneconnector 3182.

The header footswitch module 3186 includes a controller 3240 coupled toa plurality of analog footswitch ports 3254, 3256, 3258 through aplurality of corresponding presence/ID and switch state modules 3242,3244, 3246, respectively. The controller 3240 also is coupled to anaccessory port 3260 via a presence/ID and switch state module 3248 and atransceiver module 3250. The accessory port 3260 is powered by anaccessory power module 3252. The controller 3240 is coupled to header/UIcontroller 3170 via an isolated communication module 3234 and first andsecond safety critical control modules 3230, 3232. The header footswitchmodule 3186 also includes DC/DC converter modules 3238.

In one aspect, the header/UI module 3002 provides a user interfacescreen configured to display on the LCD display 3224 for controlling afootswitch connected to any one of the analog footswitch ports 3254,3256, 3258. In some aspects, when the user plugs in a non hand-activatedinstrument into any one of the analog footswitch ports 3254, 3256, 3258,the instrument panel appears with a warning icon next to the footswitchicon. The instrument settings can be, for example, greyed out, as theinstrument cannot be activated without a footswitch.

When the user plugs in a footswitch into any one of the analogfootswitch ports 3254, 3256, 3258, a pop-up appears indicating that afootswitch has been assigned to that instrument. The footswitch iconindicates that a footswitch has been plugged in and assigned to theinstrument. The user can then tap/select on that icon to assign,reassign, unassign, or otherwise change the settings associated withthat footswitch. In these aspects, the system is configured toautomatically assign footswitches to non hand-activated instrumentsusing logic, which can further assign single or double-pedalfootswitches to the appropriate instrument. If the user wants toassign/reassign footswitches manually there are two flows that can beutilized.

In one aspect, the header/UI module 3002 provides a global footswitchbutton. Once the user taps on the global footswitch icon (located in theupper right of the user interface LCD display 3224), the footswitchassignment overlay appears and the contents in the instrument modulesdim. A (e.g., photo-realistic) representation of each attachedfootswitch (dual or single-pedal) appears on the bottom if unassigned toan instrument or on the corresponding instrument panel. Accordingly, theuser can drag and drop these illustrations into, and out of, the boxedicons in the footswitch assignment overlay to assign, unassign, andreassign footswitches to their respective instruments.

In one aspect, the header/UI module 3002 provides a user interfacescreen displayed on the LCD display 3224 indicating footswitchauto-assignment, in accordance with at least one aspect of the presentdisclosure. As discussed above, the modular energy system 3000 can beconfigured to auto-assign a footswitch to an instrument that does nothave hand activation. In some aspects, the header/UI module 3002 can beconfigured to correlate the colors displayed on the user interface LCDdisplay 3224 to the lights on the modules themselves as means oftracking physical ports with user interface elements.

In one aspect, the header/UI module 3002 may be configured to depictvarious applications of the user interface with differing number ofmodules connected to the modular energy system 3000. In various aspects,the overall layout or proportion of the user interface elementsdisplayed on the LCD display 3224 can be based on the number and type ofinstruments plugged into the header/UI module 3002. These scalablegraphics can provide the means to utilize more of the screen for bettervisualization.

In one aspect, the header/UI module 3002 may be configured to depict auser interface screen on the LCD display 3224 to indicate which ports ofthe modules connected to the modular energy system 3000 are active. Insome aspects, the header/UI module 3002 can be configured to illustrateactive versus inactive ports by highlighting active ports and dimminginactive ports. In one aspect, ports can be represented with color whenactive (e.g., monopolar tissue cut with yellow, monopolar tissuecoagulation with blue, bipolar tissue cut with blue, advanced energytissue cut with warm white, and so on). Further, the displayed colorwill match the color of the light piping around the ports. The coloringcan further indicate that the user cannot change settings of otherinstruments while an instrument is active. As another example, theheader/UI module 3002 can be configured to depict the bipolar,monopolar, and ultrasonic ports of a first energy module as active andthe monopolar ports of a second energy module as likewise active.

In one aspect, the header/UI module 3002 can be configured to depict auser interface screen on the LCD display 3224 to display a globalsettings menu. In one aspect, the header/UI module 3002 can beconfigured to display a menu on the LCD display 3224 to control globalsettings across any modules connected to the modular energy system 3000.The global settings menu can be, for example, always displayed in aconsistent location (e.g., always available in upper right hand cornerof main screen).

In one aspect, the header/UI module 3002 can be configured to depict auser interface screen on the LCD display 3224 configured to preventchanging of settings while a surgical instrument is in use. In oneexample, the header/UI module 3002 can be configured to prevent settingsfrom being changed via a displayed menu when a connected instrument isactive. The user interface screen can include, for example, an area(e.g., the upper left hand corner) that is reserved for indicatinginstrument activation while a settings menu is open. In one aspect, auser has opened the bipolar settings while monopolar coagulation isactive. In one aspect, the settings menu could then be used once theactivation is complete. In one aspect, the header/UI module 3002 can beis configured to never overlay any menus or other information over thededicated area for indicating critical instrument information in orderto maintain display of critical information.

In one aspect, the header/UI module 3002 can be configured to depict auser interface screen on the LCD display 3224 configured to displayinstrument errors. In one aspect, instrument error warnings may bedisplayed on the instrument panel itself, allowing user to continue touse other instruments while a nurse troubleshoots the error. This allowsusers to continue the surgery without the need to stop the surgery todebug the instrument.

In one aspect, the header/UI module 3002 can be configured to depict auser interface screen on the LCD display 3224 to display different modesor settings available for various instruments. In various aspects, theheader/UI module 3002 can be configured to display settings menus thatare appropriate for the type or application of surgical instrument(s)connected to the stack/hub. Each settings menu can provide options fordifferent power levels, energy delivery profiles, and so on that areappropriate for the particular instrument type. In one aspect, theheader/UI module 3002 can be configured to display different modesavailable for bipolar, monopolar cut, and monopolar coagulationapplications.

In one aspect, the header/UI module 3002 can be configured to depict auser interface screen on the LCD display 3224 to display pre-selectedsettings. In one aspect, the header/UI module 3002 can be configured toreceive selections for the instrument/device settings before plugging ininstruments so that the modular energy system 3000 is ready before thepatient enters the operating room. In one aspect, the user can simplyclick a port and then change the settings for that port. In the depictedaspect, the selected port appears as faded to indicate settings are set,but no instrument is plugged into that port.

FIG. 19 is a block diagram of an energy module 3270 for a hub, such asthe energy module depicted in FIGS. 13, 14, 16, and 17, in accordancewith at least one aspect of the present disclosure. The energy module3270 is configured to couple to a header module, header/UI module, andother energy modules via the first and second pass-through hubconnectors 3272, 3276. A switch 3076 disposed between the first andsecond pass-through hub connectors 3272, 3276 receives, processes, andforwards data from the source device to the destination device andcontrols data communication therebetween. Data is received andtransmitted through the data bus 3008. The energy module 3270 includes acontroller 3082 to control various communications and processingfunctions of the energy module 3270.

DC power is received and transmitted by the energy module 3270 throughthe power bus 3006. The power bus 3006 is coupled to the DC/DC convertermodules 3138 to supply power to adjustable regulators 3084, 3107 andisolated DC/DC converter ports 3096, 3112, 3132.

In one aspect, the energy module 3270 can include an ultrasonic widebandamplifier 3086, which in one aspect may be a linear class H amplifierthat is capable of generating arbitrary waveforms and drive harmonictransducers at low total harmonic distortion (THD) levels. Theultrasonic wideband amplifier 3086 is fed by a buck adjustable regulator3084 to maximize efficiency and controlled by the controller 3082, whichmay be implemented as a digital signal processor (DSP) via a directdigital synthesizer (DDS), for example. The DDS can either be embeddedin the DSP or implemented in the field-programmable gate array (FPGA),for example. The controller 3082 controls the ultrasonic widebandamplifier 3086 via a digital-to-analog converter 3106 (DAC). The outputof the ultrasonic wideband amplifier 3086 is fed to an ultrasonic powertransformer 3088, which is coupled to an ultrasonic energy outputportion of the advanced energy receptacle 3100. Ultrasonic voltage (V)and current (I) feedback (FB) signals, which may be employed to computeultrasonic impedance, are fed back to the controller 3082 via anultrasonic VI FB transformer 3092 through an input portion of theadvanced energy receptacle 3100. The ultrasonic voltage and currentfeedback signals are routed back to the controller 3082 through ananalog multiplexer 3280 and a dual analog-to-digital converter 3278(A/D). In one aspect, the dual A/D 3278 has a sampling rate of 80 MSPS.Also coupled to the controller 3082 through the advanced energyreceptacle 3100 is the isolated DC/DC converter port 3096, whichreceives DC power from the power bus 3006, and a medium bandwidth dataport 3098.

In one aspect, the energy module 3270 can include a plurality ofwideband RF power amplifiers 3108, 3286, 3288, among others, which inone aspect, each of the wideband RF power amplifiers 3108, 3286, 3288may be linear class H amplifiers capable of generating arbitrarywaveforms and drive RF loads at a range of output frequencies. Each ofthe wideband RF power amplifiers 3108, 3286, 3288 are fed by anadjustable buck regulator 3107 to maximize efficiency and controlled bythe controller 3082, which may be implemented as DSP via a DDS. The DDScan either be embedded in the DSP or implemented in the FPGA, forexample. The controller 3082 controls the first wideband RF poweramplifier 3108 via a DAC 3122.

Unlike the energy modules 3004, 3012 shown and described in FIGS. 16 and17, the energy module 3270 does not include RF selection relaysconfigured to receive an RF output signal from the adjustable buckregulator 3107. In addition, unlike the energy modules 3004, 3012 shownand described in FIGS. 16 and 17, the energy module 3270 includes aplurality of wideband RF power amplifiers 3108, 3286, 3288 instead of asingle RF power amplifier. In one aspect, the adjustable buck regulator3107 can switch between a plurality of states, in which the adjustablebuck regulator 3107 outputs an output RF signal to one of the pluralityof wideband RF power amplifiers 3108, 3286, 3288 connected thereto. Thecontroller 3082 is configured to switch the adjustable buck regulator3107 between the plurality of states. In a first state, the controllerdrives the adjustable buck regulator 3107 to output an RF energy signalto the first wideband RF power amplifier 3108. In a second state, thecontroller drives the adjustable buck regulator 3107 to output an RFenergy signal to the second wideband RF power amplifier 3286. In a thirdstate, the controller drives the adjustable buck regulator 3107 tooutput an RF energy signal to the third wideband RF power amplifier3288.

The output of the first wideband RF power amplifier 3108 can be fed toan RF power transformer 3090, which is coupled to an RF output portionof an advanced energy receptacle 3100. RF voltage (V) and current (I)feedback (FB) signals, which may be employed to compute RF impedance,are fed back to the controller 3082 via RF VI FB transformers 3094through an input portion of the advanced energy receptacle 3100. The RFvoltage and current feedback signals are routed back to the controller3082 through the RF VI FB transformers 3094, which are coupled to ananalog multiplexer 3284 and a dual A/D 3282 coupled to the controller3082. In one aspect, the dual A/D 3282 has a sampling rate of 80 MSPS.

The output of the second RF wideband power amplifier 3286 is fed throughan RF power transformer 3128 of the RF monopolar receptacle 3136.Monopolar RF voltage (V) and current (I) feedback (FB) signals, whichmay be employed to compute RF impedance, are fed back to the controller3082 via RF VI FB transformers 3130 through an input portion of themonopolar RF energy receptacle 3136. The RF voltage and current feedbacksignals are routed back to the controller 3082 through the analogmultiplexer 3284 and the dual A/D 3282. Also coupled to the controller3082 through the monopolar RF energy receptacle 3136 is the isolatedDC/DC converter port 3132, which receives DC power from the power bus3006, and a low bandwidth data port 3134.

The output of the third RF wideband power amplifier 3288 is fed throughan RF power transformer 3110 of a bipolar RF receptacle 3118. Bipolar RFvoltage (V) and current (I) feedback (FB) signals, which may be employedto compute RF impedance, are fed back to the controller 3082 via RF VIFB transformers 3114 through an input portion of the bipolar RF energyreceptacle 3118. The RF voltage and current feedback signals are routedback to the controller 3082 through the analog multiplexer 3280 and thedual A/D 3278. Also coupled to the controller 3082 through the bipolarRF energy receptacle 3118 is the isolated DC/DC converter port 3112,which receives DC power from the power bus 3006, and a low bandwidthdata port 3116.

A contact monitor 3290 is coupled to an NE receptacle 3292. Power is fedto the NE receptacle 3292 from the monopolar receptacle 3136.

In one aspect, with reference to FIGS. 13-19, the modular energy system3000 can be configured to detect instrument presence in a receptacle3100, 3118, 3136 via a photo-interrupter, magnetic sensor, or othernon-contact sensor integrated into the receptacle 3100, 3118, 3136. Thisapproach prevents the necessity of allocating a dedicated presence pinon the MTD connector to a single purpose and instead allowsmulti-purpose functionality for MTD signal pins 6-9 while continuouslymonitoring instrument presence.

In one aspect, with reference to FIGS. 13-19, the modules of the modularenergy system 3000 can include an optical link allowing high speedcommunication (10-50 Mb/s) across the patient isolation boundary. Thislink would carry device communications, mitigation signals (watchdog,etc.), and low bandwidth run-time data. In some aspects, the opticallink(s) will not contain real-time sampled data, which can be done onthe non-isolated side.

In one aspect, with reference to FIGS. 13-19, the modules of the modularenergy system 3000 can include a multi-function circuit block which can:(i) read presence resistor values via A/D and current source, (ii)communicate with legacy instruments via hand switch Q protocols, (iii)communicate with instruments via local bus 1-Wire protocols, and (iv)communicate with CAN FD-enabled surgical instruments. When a surgicalinstrument is properly identified by an energy generator module, therelevant pin functions and communications circuits are enabled, whilethe other unused functions are disabled or disconnected and set to ahigh impedance state.

In one aspect, with reference to FIGS. 13-19, the modules of the modularenergy system 3000 can include a pulse/stimulation/auxiliary amplifier.This is a flexible-use amplifier based on a full-bridge output andincorporates functional isolation. This allows its differential outputto be referenced to any output connection on the applied part (except,in some aspects, a monopolar active electrode). The amplifier output canbe either small signal linear (pulse/stim) with waveform drive providedby a DAC or a square wave drive at moderate output power for DCapplications such as DC motors, illumination, FET drive, etc. The outputvoltage and current are sensed with functionally isolated voltage andcurrent feedback to provide accurate impedance and power measurements tothe FPGA. Paired with a CAN FD-enabled instrument, this output can offermotor/motion control drive, while position or velocity feedback isprovided by the CAN FD interface for closed loop control.

As described in greater detail herein, a modular energy system comprisesa header module and one or more functional or surgical modules. Invarious instances, the modular energy system is a modular energy system.In various instances, the surgical modules include energy modules,communication modules, user interface modules; however, the surgicalmodules are envisioned to be any suitable type of functional or surgicalmodule for use with the modular energy system.

Modular energy system offers many advantages in a surgical procedure, asdescribed above in connection with the modular energy systems 2000(FIGS. 6-12), 3000 (FIGS. 13-15). However, cable management andsetup/teardown time can be a significant deterrent. Various aspects ofthe present disclosure provide a modular energy system with a singlepower cable and a single power switch to control startup and shutdown ofthe entire modular energy system, which obviated the need toindividually activate and deactivate each individual module from whichthe modular energy system is constructed. Also, various aspects of thepresent disclosure provide a modular energy system with power managementschemes that facilitate a safe and, in some instances, concurrentdelivery of power to the modules of a modular energy system.

In various aspects, as illustrated in FIG. 20, a modular energy system6000 that is similar in many respects to the modular energy systems 2000(FIGS. 6-12), 3000 (FIGS. 13-15). For the sake of brevity, variousdetails of the modular energy system 6000, which are similar to themodular energy system 2000 and/or the modular energy system 3000, arenot repeated herein.

The modular energy system 6000 comprises a header module 6002 and an “N”number of surgical modules 6004, where “N” is an integer greater than orequal to one. In various examples, the modular energy system 6000includes a UI module such as, for example, the UI module 3030 and/or acommunication module such as, for example, the communication module3032. Furthermore, pass-through hub connectors couple individual modulesto one another in a stack configuration. In the example of FIG. 20, theheader module 6002 is coupled to a surgical module 6004 via pass-throughhub connectors 6005, 6006.

The modular energy system 6000 comprises an example power architecturethat consists of a single AC/DC power supply 6003 that provides power toall the surgical modules in the stack. The AC/DC power supply 6003 ishoused in the header module 6002, and utilizes a power backplane 6008 todistribute power to each module in the stack. The example of FIG. 20demonstrates three separate power domains on the power backplane 6008: aprimary power domain 6009, a standby power domain 6010, and an Ethernetswitch power domain 6013.

In the example illustrated in FIG. 20, the power backplane 6008 extendsfrom the header module 6002 through a number of intermediate modules6004 to a most bottom, or farthest, module in the stack. In variousaspects, the power backplane 6008 is configured to deliver power to asurgical module 6004 through one or more other surgical modules 6004that are ahead of it in the stack. The surgical module 6004 receivingpower from the header module 6002 can be coupled to a surgicalinstrument or tool configured to deliver therapeutic energy to apatient.

The primary power domain 6009 is the primary power source for thefunctional module-specific circuits 6013, 6014, 6015 of the modules6002, 6004. It consists of a single voltage rail that is provided toevery module. In at least one example, a nominal voltage of 60V can beselected to be higher than the local rails needed by any module, so thatthe modules can exclusively implement buck regulation, which isgenerally more efficient than boost regulation.

In various aspects, the primary power domain 6009 is controlled by theheader module 6002. In certain instances, as illustrated in FIG. 20, alocal power switch 6018 is positioned on the header module 6002. Incertain instances, a remote on/off interface 6016 can be configured tocontrol a system power control 6017 on the header module 6002, forexample. In at least one example, the remote on/off interface 6016 isconfigured to transmit pulsed discrete commands (separate commands forOn and Off) and a power status telemetry signal. In various instances,the primary power domain 6009 is configured to distribute power to allthe modules in the stack configuration following a user-initiatedpower-up.

In various aspects, as illustrated in FIG. 21, the modules of themodular energy system 6000 can be communicably coupled to the headermodule 6002 and/or to each other via a communication (Serialbus/Ethernet) interface 6040 such that data or other information isshared by and between the modules of which the modular energy system isconstructed. An Ethernet switch domain 6013 can be derived from theprimary power domain 6009, for example. The Ethernet switch power domain6013 is segregated into a separate power domain, which is configured topower Ethernet switches within each of the modules in the stackconfiguration, so that the primary communications interface 6040 willremain alive when local power to a module is removed. In at least oneexample, the primary communication interface 6040 comprises a 1000BASE-TEthernet network, where each module represents a node on the network,and each module downstream from the header module 6002 contains a 3-portEthernet switch for routing traffic to the local module or passing thedata up or downstream as appropriate.

Furthermore, in certain examples, the modular energy system 6000includes secondary, low speed, communication interface between modulesfor critical, power related functions including module power sequencingand module power status. The secondary communications interface can, forexample, be a multi-drop Local Interconnect Network (LIN), where theheader module is the master and all downstream modules are slaves.

In various aspects, as illustrated in FIG. 20, a standby power domain6010 is a separate output from the AC/DC power supply 6003 that isalways live when the supply is connected to mains power 6020. Thestandby power domain 6010 is used by all the modules in the system topower circuitry for a mitigated communications interface, and to controlthe local power to each module. Further, the standby power domain 6010is configured to provide power to circuitry that is critical in astandby mode such as, for example, on/off command detection, statusLEDs, secondary communication bus, etc.

In various aspects, as illustrated in FIG. 20, the individual surgicalmodules 6004 lack independent power supplies and, as such, rely on theheader module 6002 to supply power in the stack configuration. Only theheader module 6002 is directly connected to the mains power 6020. Thesurgical modules 6004 lack direct connections to the mains power 6020,and can receive power only in the stack configuration. This arrangementimproves the safety of the individual surgical modules 6004, and reducesthe overall footprint of the modular energy system 6000. Thisarrangement further reduces the number of cords required for properoperation of the modular energy system 6000, which can reduce clutterand footprint in the operating room.

Accordingly, a surgical instrument connected to surgical modules 6004 ofa modular energy system 6000, in the stack configuration, receivestherapeutic energy for tissue treatment that is generated by thesurgical module 6004 from power delivered to the surgical module 6004from the AC/DC power supply 6003 of the header module 6002.

In at least one example, while a header module 6002 is assembled in astack configuration with a first surgical module 6004′, energy can flowfrom the AC/DC power supply 6003 to the first surgical module 6004′.Further, while a header module 6002 is assembled in a stackconfiguration with a first surgical module 6004′ (connected to theheader module 6002) and a second surgical module 6004″ (connected to thefirst surgical module 6004′), energy can flow from the AC/DC powersupply 6003 to the second surgical module 6004″ through the firstsurgical module 6004′.

The energy generated by the AC/DC power supply 6003 of the header module6002 is transmitted through a segmented power backplane 6008 definedthrough the modular energy system 6000. In the example of FIG. 20, theheader module 6002 houses a power backplane segment 6008′, the firstsurgical module 6004′ houses a power backplane segment 6008″, and thesecond surgical module 6004″ houses a power backplane segment 6008″. Thepower backplane segment 6008′ is detachably coupled to the powerbackplane segment 6008″ in the stack configuration. Further, the powerbackplane 6008″ is detachably coupled to the power backplane segment6008′″ in the stack configuration. Accordingly, energy flows from theAC/DC power supply 6003 to the power backplane segment 6008′, then tothe power backplane segment 6008″, and then to the power backplanesegment 6008′″.

In the example of FIG. 20, the power backplane segment 6008′ isdetachably connected to the power backplane segment 6008″ viapass-through hub connectors 6005, 6006 in the stack configuration.Further, the power backplane segment 6008″ is detachably connected tothe power backplane segment 6008′″ via pass-through hub connectors 6025,6056 in the stack configuration. In certain instances, removing asurgical module from the stack configuration severs its connection tothe power supply 6003. For example, separating the second surgicalmodule 6004″ from the first surgical module 6004′ disconnects the powerbackplane segment 6008′″ from the power backplane segment 6008″.However, the connection between the power backplane segment 6008″ andthe power backplane segment 6008′″ remains intact as long as the headermodule 6002 and the first surgical module 6004′ remain in the stackconfiguration. Accordingly, energy can still flow to the first surgicalmodule 6004′ after disconnecting the second surgical module 6004″through the connection between the header module 6002 and the firstsurgical module 6004′. Separating connected modules can be achieved, incertain instances, by simply pulling the surgical modules 6004 apart.

In the example of FIG. 20, each of the modules 6002, 6004 includes amitigated module control 6023. The mitigated module controls 6023 arecoupled to corresponding local power regulation modules 6024 that areconfigured to regulate power based on input from the mitigated modulecontrols 6023. In certain aspects, the mitigated module controls 6023allow the header module 6002 to independently control the local powerregulation modules 6024.

The modular energy system 6000 further includes a mitigatedcommunications interface 6021 that includes a segmented communicationbackplane 6027 extending between the mitigated module controls 6023. Thesegmented communication backplane 6027 is similar in many respects tothe segmented power backplane 6008. Mitigated Communication between themitigated module controls 6023 of the header module 6002 and thesurgical modules 6004 can be achieved through the segmentedcommunication backplane 6027 defined through the modular energy system6000. In the example of FIG. 20, the header module 6002 houses acommunication backplane segment 6027′, the first surgical module 6004′houses a communication backplane segment 6027″, and the second surgicalmodule 6004″ houses a communication backplane segment 6027′″. Thecommunication backplane segment 6027′ is detachably coupled to thecommunication backplane segment 6027″ in the stack configuration via thepass-through hub connectors 6005, 6006. Further, the communicationbackplane 6027″ is detachably coupled to the communication backplanesegment 6027″ in the stack configuration via the pass-through hubconnectors 6025, 6026.

Although the example of FIG. 20 depicts a modular energy system 6000includes a header module 6002 and two surgical modules 6004′ 6004″, thisis not limiting. Modular energy systems with more or less surgicalmodules are contemplated by the present disclosure. In some aspects, themodular energy system 6000 includes other modules such as, for example,the communications module 3032 (FIG. 15). In some aspects, the headermodule 6502 supports a display screen such as, for example, the display2006 (FIG. 7A) that renders a GUI such as, for example, the GUI 2008 forrelaying information regarding the modules connected to the headermodule 6002. As described in greater detail in connection with theexample of FIG. 15, in some aspects, the GUI 2008 of the display screen2006 can provide a consolidated point of control all of the modulesmaking up the particular configuration of a modular energy system.

FIG. 21 depicts a simplified schematic diagram of the modular energysystem 6000, which illustrates a primary communications interface 6040between the header module 6002 and the surgical modules 6004. Theprimary communications interface 6040 communicably connects moduleprocessors 6041, 6041′, 6041″ of the header module 6002 and the surgicalmodules 6004. Commands generated by the module processor 6041 of theheader module are transmitted downstream to a desired functionalsurgical module via the primary communications interface 6040. Incertain instances, the primary communications interface 6040 isconfigured to establish a two-way communication pathway betweenneighboring modules. In other instances, the primary communicationsinterface 6040 is configured to establish a one-way communicationpathway between neighboring modules.

Furthermore, the primary communications interface 6040 includes asegmented communication backplane 6031, which is similar in manyrespects to the segmented power backplane 6008. Communication betweenthe header module 6002 and the surgical modules 6004 can be achievedthrough the segmented communication backplane 6031 defined through themodular energy system 6000. In the example of FIG. 21, the header module6002 houses a communication backplane segment 6031′, the first surgicalmodule 6004′ houses a communication backplane segment 6031″, and thesecond surgical module 6004″ houses a communication backplane segment6031′″. The communication backplane segment 6031′ is detachably coupledto the communication backplane segment 6031″ in the stack configurationvia the pass-through hub connectors 6005, 6006. Further, thecommunication backplane 6031″ is detachably coupled to the communicationbackplane segment 6031″ in the stack configuration via the pass-throughhub connectors 6025, 6026.

In at least one example, as illustrated in FIG. 21, the primarycommunications interface 6040 is implemented using the DDS frameworkrunning on a Gigabit Ethernet interface. The module processors 6041,6041′, 6041″ are connected to Gigabit Ethernet Phy 6044, and GigabitEthernet Switches 6042′, 6042″. In the example of FIG. 21, the segmentedcommunication backplane 6031 connects the Gigabit Ethernet Phy 6044 andthe Gigabit Ethernet Switches 6042 of the neighboring modules.

In various aspects, as illustrated in FIG. 21, the header module 6002includes a separate Gigabit Ethernet Phy 6045 for an externalcommunications interface 6043 with the processor module 6041 of theheader module 6002. In at least one example, the processor module 6041of the header module 6002 handles firewalls and information routing.

Referring to FIG. 20, the AC/DC power supply 6003 may provide an ACStatus signal 6011 that indicates a loss of AC power supplied by theAC/DC power supply 6003. The AC status signal 6011 can be provided toall the modules of the modular energy system 6000 via the segmentedpower backplane 6008 to allow each module as much time as possible for agraceful shutdown, before primary output power is lost. The AC statussignal 6011 is received by the module specific circuits 6013, 6014,6015, for example. In various examples, the system power control 6017can be configured to detect AC power loss. In at least one example, theAC power loss is detected via one or more suitable sensors.

Referring to FIGS. 20 and 21, to ensure that a local power failure inone of the modules of the modular energy system 6000 does not disablethe entire power bus, the primary power input to all modules can befused or a similar method of current limiting can be used (e-fuse,circuit breaker, etc.). Further, Ethernet switch power is segregatedinto a separate power domain 6013 so that the primary communicationsinterface 6040 remains alive when local power to a module is removed. Inother words, primary power can be removed and/or diverted from asurgical module without losing its ability to communicate with othersurgical modules 6004 and/or the header module 6002.

Single Energy Port Support for Multiple Energy Devices

Having described a general implementation the header and modules ofmodular energy systems 2000, 3000, 6000, the disclosure now turns todescribe various aspects of other modular energy systems. The othermodular energy systems are substantially similar to the modular energysystem 2000, the modular energy system 3000, and/or the modular energysystem 6000. For the sake of brevity, various details of the othermodular energy systems being described in the following sections, whichare similar to the modular energy system 2000, the modular energy system3000, and/or the modular energy system 6000, are not repeated herein.Any aspect of the other modular energy systems described below can bebrought into the modular energy system 2000, the modular energy system3000, or the modular energy system 6000.

According to various aspects, the present disclosure provides a modularenergy system comprising an energy module capable of driving two or moresurgical instruments from one energy port non-simultaneously. By way ofexample and not limitation, during certain surgical procedures there isa need for an energy module to drive multiple surgical instruments fromone energy output port non-simultaneously to perform certain targetactivities. Using an external splitter controlled by the modular energysystem to multiplex multiple surgical instruments from a single energyport is useful in robotic surgery applications where the need formultiple energy modules is not required but the ability to drive morethan one instrument is often required. In one aspect, the externalsplitter is transparent to the robot software. In various aspects, asexplained below, a single energy output port of an energy module can bemultiplexed to two or more surgical instruments including multipleenergy modalities, such as, for example, bipolar RF, monopolar RF,advanced bipolar RF combined with ultrasonic, and/or ultrasonic energymodalities. It will be appreciated that any details of the modularenergy systems 2000, 3000, 6000 described above are incorporated byreference in the following description of FIGS. 22-25.

Turning now to FIG. 22, there is shown a modular energy system 1200comprising a header module 1202, an energy module 1206, and amulti-energy port splitter 1214 coupled thereto, in accordance with atleast one aspect of the present disclosure. The header module 1202 iscapable of controlling the multi-energy port splitter 1214 (e.g., andn-energy port splitter, where n is an integer greater than one) via acontrol line 1220 to the control port 1204 of the header module 1202,which may be an accessory port of the header module 1202, for example.The multi-energy port splitter 1214 can demultiplex an energy modalitycoming into a single node and switches it to multiple output nodes atdifferent times. In the illustrated example, the multi-energy portsplitter 1214 demultiplexes the single energy output port 1212 of theenergy module 1206 up to n energy output ports from a first energyoutput port 1216 up to an n-th energy output port 1218, where n is aninteger greater than one. For example, for a 1-to-2 energy output portexpansion (e.g., demultiplex) n=2; for a 1-to-3 energy output portexpansion n=3; for a 1-to-4 energy output port expansion n=4; and so on.Any energy modality such as, for example, bipolar RF, monopolar RF,bipolar RF combined with ultrasonic, and/or ultrasonic energy modalitiesreceived at an input node of the multi-energy port splitter 1214 can bedemultiplexed in multiple energy output ports 1216, 1218 at differenttimes.

The energy module 1206 comprises an energy output port 1212 capable ofsupplying any energy modality from the energy module 1206 to an inputnode of the multi-energy port splitter 1214 via an energy supply line1208. The energy supply line 1208 is coupled to an input node of themulti-energy port splitter 1214. In one aspect, the energy module 1206is configured to select which one of the n-energy output ports 1216,1218 to activate. In another aspect, the energy module 1206 isconfigured to control n-surgical instruments connected to one of then-energy output ports 1216, 1218. A first surgical instrument iscouplable to the first energy output port 1216 and up to an n-thsurgical instrument is couplable to the n-th energy output port 1218.The n-surgical instruments can be independently activated and controlledby the energy module 1206. Accordingly, the surgical instruments maycomprise any suitable energy device such as bipolar RF devices,monopolar RF devices, bipolar RF/ultrasonic combination devices, and/orultrasonic devices, for example.

Turning now to FIG. 23, there is shown a modular energy system 1230comprising a header module 1232, an energy module 1238, and amulti-energy port splitter 1248 coupled thereto, in accordance with atleast one aspect of the present disclosure. The header module 1232provides power to the multi-energy port splitter 1248 through anaccessory port 1234 (AP) via a power line 1236 through an isolated powersupply 1235. The multi-energy port splitter 1248 expands the singleenergy output port 1240 of the energy module 1238 into two energy outputports 1253, 1255 configured to drive an energy device 1256 and a secondenergy device 1258 at different times. It will be appreciated that themulti-energy port splitter 1248 may be replaced with an n-energy portsplitter, as discussed in FIG. 22, to expand the single energy outputport 1240 of the energy module 1238 into n-energy output ports to driven-energy devices at different times. The energy output port 1240 maysupply any energy modality such as, for example, bipolar RF, monopolarRF, bipolar RF combined with ultrasonic, and/or ultrasonic energymodalities. Accordingly, the energy devices 1256, 1258 may be bipolar RFdevices, monopolar RF devices, bipolar RF/ultrasonic combinationdevices, and/or ultrasonic devices, for example.

In one aspect, the multi-energy port splitter 1248 comprises an inputnode 1249 to receive an energy signal from the energy output port 1240of the energy module 1238. The energy signal is carried by first andsecond lines 1242, 1244, where the first line 1242 is coupled to a firstpole (e.g., active pole) of an energy source and the second line 1244 iscoupled to a second pole (e.g., return electrode) of the energy sourceof the energy module 1238. The energy source may be a bipolar RF energysource, a monopolar RF energy source, a combination bipolarRF/ultrasonic energy source, and/or an ultrasonic energy source, amongother energy sources.

In one aspect, the multi-energy port splitter 1248 comprises anelectronically controlled power switch 1251 to switch the energy inputfrom the energy module 1238 received at the input node 1249 to two ormore output nodes 1252, 1254 to supply energy to two or more energydevices 1256, 1256 coupled to two or more energy output ports 1253,1255. In the example where the input node 1249 is switched to two outputnodes 1252, 1254 the electronically controlled power switch 1251 may bea double pole double throw (DPDT) switch that is electronicallycontrolled by a controller 1250 via a power switch control line 1257. Inother aspects, the electronically controlled power switch 1251 may beimplemented with two single pole double throw (SPDT) switches or foursingle pole single throw (SPST) switches, among other switchconfigurations. In various aspects, the electronically controlled powerswitch 1251 may comprise additional switches and output nodes toaccommodate up to n-energy output ports to couple to up to n-energydevices, for example.

In one aspect, the multi-energy port splitter 1248 further comprises acontroller 1250 connected to the energy module 1238 via a communicationline 1246. In one aspect, the controller 1250 may be implemented as anFPGA circuit, although it can be implemented using a processor ormicrocontroller circuit, without limitation. The controller 1250 iselectrically connected to a control input of the electronicallycontrolled power switch 1251 via the power switch control line 1257 tocontrol which of the output nodes 1252, 1254 connects the input node1249 to the energy output ports 1253, 1255. Accordingly, in operation,the controller 1250 selects which energy device 1256, 1258 should bepowered based on data received from the energy module 1238 transmittedover the communication line 1246. The controller 1250 is capable ofcommunicating commands and data to the first energy device 1256 via afirst communication bus 1231 and to the second energy device 1258 via asecond communication bus 1233. Additional communication busses may beadded as additional energy output ports and energy devices are added tothe multi-energy port splitter 1248. The first and second communicationbusses 1231, 1233 may be serial communication busses such as, forexample, a 1-Wire device communication bus. The communication busses1231, 1233 are isolated from the first and second bipolar instruments1256, 1258 through electrical isolation circuits 1237, 1239 such as, forexample, isolation transformers, optical isolators (e.g.,opto-couplers), capacitive isolators, among other isolation circuittechniques. Commands and data may be communicated to the first andsecond bipolar instruments 1256, 1258 via the first and secondcommunication busses 1231, 1233.

In one aspect, the communication line 1246 is a serial communicationbus, such as, for example, a 1-Wire device communication bus. Thecommunication line 1246 transmits control signals to the controller 1250from the energy module 1238. Accordingly either the energy module 1238or the header module 1232 is configured to transmit control signals tothe controller 1250 to select one of the energy devices 1256, 1258connected to the energy output ports 1253, 1255. in an alternate aspect,the header module 1232 (instead of the energy module 1238) can transmitcontrol signals to the controller 1250 via a communication line on theaccessory port 1234.

Backplane Architectures for Multi-Energy Port Splitter

Turning now to FIGS. 24 and 25, the modular energy systems 2000, 3000,6000 described herein utilize a data backplane architecture 1260, 1280supported on an actual physical backplane communication interface 1264,in accordance with at least one aspect of the present disclosure. In oneaspect, the data backplane architecture 1260, 1280 is supported onactual physical backplane communication interface 1264 using DDS, forexample. The data backplane architecture 1260, 1280 shown in FIGS. 24and 25 are intended to depict potential ways in which an energy portsplitter may be represented within a data backplane model. In this way,the various data contained in the modular energy system 2000, 3000, 6000are contained within a data model consistent throughout the modularenergy system 2000, 3000, 6000. For example, any of the energy deliveryports 1270 may present as a “port” in the data backplane model, withfurther specification as “monopolar,” “bipolar,” etc. This can allow,for example, the header module 1266 to determine which energy ports 1270are available for use by a given energy module 1268. This isparticularly useful as future modules of the modular energy system 2000,3000, 6000 may have varying capabilities.

As described herein, a “target activity” represents “something you cando” for a given energy device 1272, 1274, 1292. An energy device 1272,1274, 1292 has a target activity of “BP Activation” 1276, 1278 alsoknown as “Energy Delivery.” Some types of energy devices 1272, 1274,1292 may have multiple potential target activities 1276, 1278. Asdescribed above, the energy delivery includes delivery of bipolar RF,monopolar RF, advanced bipolar RF combined with ultrasonic, and/orultrasonic energy modalities, among other energy modalities.Accordingly, energy devices includes bipolar RF, monopolar RF, advancedbipolar RF combined with ultrasonic, and/or ultrasonic energy devices,among other energy devices.

FIG. 24 shows a data backplane architecture 1260 for a modular energysystem 2000, 3000, 6000 where the data backplane architecture 1260 issupported on an actual physical backplane communication interface 1264and a multi-energy port splitter presents as two energy devices 1272,1274, in accordance with at least one aspect of the present disclosure.FIG. 24, for example, depicts that an multi-energy port splitter, suchas the multi-energy port splitters 1214, 1248 shown in FIGS. 22 and 23,does not directly present itself in the data backplane model but,rather, allows for the direct presentation of two energy devices 1272,1274 within the data backplane model, whereas only one such energydevice 1272 or 1274 would be supported by the energy module 1268 absentthe energy port splitter. Because of this, a robot 1262 coupled to thebackplane interface 1264 and the rest of the modular energy system mayremain agnostic to the presence of an energy port splitter and mayoperate only on the knowledge that there are two energy devices 1272,1274 available for use. Particularly advantageous, is that the robot1262 may be configured to operate with this presentation and then, if inthe future an energy module 1268 with support for two energy devices1272, 1274 is installed, the robot 1262 will not “detect” any differencein the data backplane model being presented in.

FIG. 25 shows a data backplane architecture 1280 for a modular energysystem 2000, 3000, 6000 where the data backplane architecture 1280 issupported on an actual physical backplane communication interface 1264and a multi-energy port splitter presents as a type of energy device1292, in accordance with at least one aspect of the present disclosure.The data backplane architecture 1280 shown in FIG. 25 is an alternativeway of presenting the multi-energy port splitter, such as themulti-energy port splitters 1214, 1248 shown in FIGS. 22 and 23, on thedata backplane model. In this case, the energy port 1290 (adapter) ispresented as its own type of energy device 1292—this time with twounique Target Activities available for use. Energy Activation 1 TargetActivity 1276 corresponds to providing energy to a first energy port onthe multi-energy port splitter, and Energy Activation 2 Target Activity1278 corresponds to providing energy to a second energy port on themulti-energy port splitter. In this way, the presence of the energy portsplitter is known and presented within the data backplane model, butwithin the existing norms of the Energy Port>Energy Device>TargetActivity hierarchy.

EXAMPLES

Various aspects of the subject matter described herein are set out inthe following numbered examples.

Example 1. A multi-energy port splitter for a modular energy system, themulti-energy port splitter comprising: an input port configured tocouple to an energy output port of an energy module; a first energyoutput port configured to deliver energy supplied by the energy outputport of the energy module; at least a second energy output portconfigured to deliver the energy supplied by the energy output port ofthe energy module; an electronically controlled power switch configuredto switch energy received at the input port to one of the first energyoutput port or the at least second energy output port; and a controllerconfigured to couple to the energy module through a first communicationbus, wherein the controller is electrically coupled to theelectronically controlled power switch through a power switch controlline.

Example 2. The multi-energy port splitter of Example 1, wherein theelectronically controlled power switch comprises an input node coupledto the input port, one output node coupled to the first energy outputport, and at least a second output node coupled to the second energyoutput port.

Example 3. The multi-energy port splitter of Example 2, wherein theelectronically controlled power switch comprises a plurality of outputnodes coupled to a plurality of energy output ports, wherein each one ofthe plurality of output nodes is coupled to one of the plurality ofenergy output ports.

Example 4. The multi-energy port splitter of any one or more of Examples1 through 3, wherein the electronically controlled power switchcomprises multiple switches.

Example 5. The multi-energy port splitter of any one or more of Examples1 through 4, wherein the first energy output port is electricallycoupled to the controller via a second communication bus, wherein thecontroller is configured to communicate to a surgical instrumentelectrically coupled to the first energy output port via the secondcommunication bus.

Example 6. The multi-energy port splitter of Example 5, wherein the atleast second energy output port is electrically coupled to thecontroller via at least a third communication bus, wherein thecontroller is configured to communicate to the surgical instrumentelectrically coupled to the at least second energy output port via theat least third communication bus.

Example 7. The multi-energy port splitter of Example 6, furthercomprising a plurality of energy output ports electrically coupled tothe controller via a plurality of communication busses, wherein each oneof the plurality of energy output ports is coupled to one of theplurality of communication busses.

Example 8. The multi-energy port splitter of Example 7, wherein each oneof the plurality of communication busses is a serial communication bus.

Example 9. The multi-energy port splitter of Example 8, wherein theplurality of communication busses is isolated from the plurality ofenergy output ports through a plurality of isolation circuits, whereineach one of the plurality of energy output ports is coupled to one ofthe plurality of communication busses though one of the plurality ofisolation circuits.

Example 10. The multi-energy port splitter of any one or more ofExamples 1 through 9, further comprising an energy module electricallycoupled to the multi-energy port splitter.

Example 11. The multi-energy port splitter of Example 10, furthercomprising a header module electrically coupled to the energy module andto the multi-energy port splitter.

Example 12. The multi-energy port splitter of Example 11, wherein theheader module is configured to send control data to the controller toselect the first or the at least second energy output ports through theelectrically controlled power switch and wherein the energy module isconfigured to deliver energy to the electrically controlled powerswitch.

Example 13. A modular energy system, comprising: a backplane comprisinga plurality of backplane communication interfaces, wherein at least oneof the plurality of communication interfaces is configured to receive atleast one multi-energy port splitter and at least one other backplanecommunication interface is configured to receive an energy module;wherein the at least one multi-energy port splitter is presented as anenergy delivery port to the energy module.

Example 14. The modular energy system of Example 13, wherein the atleast one multi-energy port splitter is presented to the energy moduleas a plurality of energy devices available for use.

Example 15. The modular energy system of Example 14, wherein the energymodule is configured to operate at least one of the plurality of energydevices for a first target activity and at least one of the plurality ofenergy devices for a second target activity.

Example 16. The modular energy system of any one or more of Examples 13through 15, wherein the at least one multi-energy port splitter ispresented to the energy module as a type of energy device.

Example 17. The modular energy system of Example 16, wherein the energymodule is configured to operate the energy device for: a first targetactivity through a first energy port of the multi-energy port splitter;and a second target activity through a second energy port of themulti-energy port splitter.

Example 18. A modular energy system, comprising: a header module; atleast one energy module coupled to the header module, the energy modulecomprising an energy output port; and a multi-energy port splitter for amodular energy system, the multi-energy port splitter comprising: aninput port coupled to the energy output port of the energy module; afirst energy output port configured to deliver energy supplied by theenergy output port of the energy module; at least a second energy outputport configured to deliver the energy supplied by the energy output portof the energy module; an electronically controlled power switchconfigured to switch energy received at the input port to one of thefirst energy output port or the at least second energy output port; anda controller configured to couple to the energy module through a firstcommunication bus, wherein the controller is electrically coupled to theelectronically controlled power switch through a power switch controlline.

Example 19. The modular energy system of Example 18, wherein theelectronically controlled power switch comprises an input node coupledto the input port, one output node coupled to the first energy outputport, and at least a second output node coupled to the second energyoutput port.

Example 20. The modular energy system of Example 19, wherein theelectronically controlled power switch comprises a plurality of outputnodes coupled to a plurality of energy output ports, wherein each one ofthe plurality of output nodes is coupled to one of the plurality ofenergy output ports.

Example 21. The modular energy system of any one or more of Examples 18through 20, wherein the electronically controlled power switch comprisesmultiple switches.

Example 22. The modular energy system of any one or more of Examples 18through 21, wherein the first energy output port is electrically coupledto the controller via a second communication bus, wherein the controlleris configured to communicate to a surgical instrument electricallycoupled to the first energy output port via the second communicationbus.

Example 23. The modular energy system of Example 22, wherein the atleast second energy output port is electrically coupled to thecontroller via at least a third communication bus, wherein thecontroller is configured to communicate to the surgical instrumentelectrically coupled to the at least second energy output port via theat least third communication bus.

Example 24. The modular energy system of Example 23, further comprisinga plurality of energy output ports electrically coupled to thecontroller via a plurality of communication busses, wherein each one ofthe plurality of energy output ports is coupled to one of the pluralityof communication busses.

Example 25. The modular energy system of Example 24, wherein each one ofthe plurality of communication busses is a serial communication bus.

Example 26. The modular energy system of Example 25, wherein theplurality of communication busses is isolated from the plurality ofenergy output ports through a plurality of isolation circuits, whereineach one of the plurality of energy output ports is coupled to one ofthe plurality of communication busses though one of the plurality ofisolation circuits.

Example 27. The modular energy system of any one or more of Examples 18through 26, further comprising an energy module electrically coupled tothe multi-energy port splitter.

Example 28. The modular energy system of Example 27, further comprisinga header module electrically coupled to the energy module and to themulti-energy port splitter.

Example 29. The modular energy system of Example 28, wherein the headermodule is configured to send control data to the controller to selectthe first or the at least second energy output ports through theelectrically controlled power switch and wherein the energy module isconfigured to deliver energy to the electrically controlled powerswitch.

While several forms have been illustrated and described, it is not theintention of Applicant to restrict or limit the scope of the appendedclaims to such detail. Numerous modifications, variations, changes,substitutions, combinations, and equivalents to those forms may beimplemented and will occur to those skilled in the art without departingfrom the scope of the present disclosure. Moreover, the structure ofeach element associated with the described forms can be alternativelydescribed as a means for providing the function performed by theelement. Also, where materials are disclosed for certain components,other materials may be used. It is therefore to be understood that theforegoing description and the appended claims are intended to cover allsuch modifications, combinations, and variations as falling within thescope of the disclosed forms. The appended claims are intended to coverall such modifications, variations, changes, substitutions,modifications, and equivalents.

The foregoing detailed description has set forth various forms of thedevices and/or processes via the use of block diagrams, flowcharts,and/or examples. Insofar as such block diagrams, flowcharts, and/orexamples contain one or more functions and/or operations, it will beunderstood by those within the art that each function and/or operationwithin such block diagrams, flowcharts, and/or examples can beimplemented, individually and/or collectively, by a wide range ofhardware, software, firmware, or virtually any combination thereof.Those skilled in the art will recognize that some aspects of the formsdisclosed herein, in whole or in part, can be equivalently implementedin integrated circuits, as one or more computer programs running on oneor more computers (e.g., as one or more programs running on one or morecomputer systems), as one or more programs running on one or moreprocessors (e.g., as one or more programs running on one or moremicroprocessors), as firmware, or as virtually any combination thereof,and that designing the circuitry and/or writing the code for thesoftware and or firmware would be well within the skill of one of skillin the art in light of this disclosure. In addition, those skilled inthe art will appreciate that the mechanisms of the subject matterdescribed herein are capable of being distributed as one or more programproducts in a variety of forms, and that an illustrative form of thesubject matter described herein applies regardless of the particulartype of signal bearing medium used to actually carry out thedistribution.

Instructions used to program logic to perform various disclosed aspectscan be stored within a memory in the system, such as dynamic randomaccess memory (DRAM), cache, flash memory, or other storage.Furthermore, the instructions can be distributed via a network or by wayof other computer readable media. Thus a machine-readable medium mayinclude any mechanism for storing or transmitting information in a formreadable by a machine (e.g., a computer), but is not limited to, floppydiskettes, optical disks, compact disc, read-only memory (CD-ROMs), andmagneto-optical disks, read-only memory (ROMs), random access memory(RAM), erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), electricallyerasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), magnetic or opticalcards, flash memory, or a tangible, machine-readable storage used in thetransmission of information over the Internet via electrical, optical,acoustical or other forms of propagated signals (e.g., carrier waves,infrared signals, digital signals, etc.). Accordingly, thenon-transitory computer-readable medium includes any type of tangiblemachine-readable medium suitable for storing or transmitting electronicinstructions or information in a form readable by a machine (e.g., acomputer).

As used in any aspect herein, the term “control circuit” may refer to,for example, hardwired circuitry, programmable circuitry (e.g., acomputer processor including one or more individual instructionprocessing cores, processing unit, processor, microcontroller,microcontroller unit, controller, digital signal processor (DSP),programmable logic device (PLD), programmable logic array (PLA), orfield programmable gate array (FPGA)), state machine circuitry, firmwarethat stores instructions executed by programmable circuitry, and anycombination thereof. The control circuit may, collectively orindividually, be embodied as circuitry that forms part of a largersystem, for example, an integrated circuit (IC), an application-specificintegrated circuit (ASIC), a system on-chip (SoC), desktop computers,laptop computers, tablet computers, servers, smart phones, etc.Accordingly, as used herein “control circuit” includes, but is notlimited to, electrical circuitry having at least one discrete electricalcircuit, electrical circuitry having at least one integrated circuit,electrical circuitry having at least one application specific integratedcircuit, electrical circuitry forming a general purpose computing deviceconfigured by a computer program (e.g., a general purpose computerconfigured by a computer program which at least partially carries outprocesses and/or devices described herein, or a microprocessorconfigured by a computer program which at least partially carries outprocesses and/or devices described herein), electrical circuitry forminga memory device (e.g., forms of random access memory), and/or electricalcircuitry forming a communications device (e.g., a modem, communicationsswitch, or optical-electrical equipment). Those having skill in the artwill recognize that the subject matter described herein may beimplemented in an analog or digital fashion or some combination thereof.

As used in any aspect herein, the term “logic” may refer to an app,software, firmware and/or circuitry configured to perform any of theaforementioned operations. Software may be embodied as a softwarepackage, code, instructions, instruction sets and/or data recorded onnon-transitory computer readable storage medium. Firmware may beembodied as code, instructions or instruction sets and/or data that arehard-coded (e.g., nonvolatile) in memory devices.

As used in any aspect herein, the terms “component,” “system,” “module”and the like can refer to a computer-related entity, either hardware, acombination of hardware and software, software, or software inexecution.

As used in any aspect herein, an “algorithm” refers to a self-consistentsequence of steps leading to a desired result, where a “step” refers toa manipulation of physical quantities and/or logic states which may,though need not necessarily, take the form of electrical or magneticsignals capable of being stored, transferred, combined, compared, andotherwise manipulated. It is common usage to refer to these signals asbits, values, elements, symbols, characters, terms, numbers, or thelike. These and similar terms may be associated with the appropriatephysical quantities and are merely convenient labels applied to thesequantities and/or states.

A network may include a packet switched network. The communicationdevices may be capable of communicating with each other using a selectedpacket switched network communications protocol. One examplecommunications protocol may include an Ethernet communications protocolwhich may be capable permitting communication using a TransmissionControl Protocol/Internet Protocol (TCP/IP). The Ethernet protocol maycomply or be compatible with the Ethernet standard published by theInstitute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) titled “IEEE802.3 Standard”, published in December, 2008 and/or later versions ofthis standard. Alternatively or additionally, the communication devicesmay be capable of communicating with each other using an X.25communications protocol. The X.25 communications protocol may comply orbe compatible with a standard promulgated by the InternationalTelecommunication Union-Telecommunication Standardization Sector(ITU-T). Alternatively or additionally, the communication devices may becapable of communicating with each other using a frame relaycommunications protocol. The frame relay communications protocol maycomply or be compatible with a standard promulgated by ConsultativeCommittee for International Telegraph and Telephone (CCITT) and/or theAmerican National Standards Institute (ANSI). Alternatively oradditionally, the transceivers may be capable of communicating with eachother using an Asynchronous Transfer Mode (ATM) communications protocol.The ATM communications protocol may comply or be compatible with an ATMstandard published by the ATM Forum titled “ATM-MPLS NetworkInterworking 2.0” published August 2001, and/or later versions of thisstandard. Of course, different and/or after-developedconnection-oriented network communication protocols are equallycontemplated herein.

Unless specifically stated otherwise as apparent from the foregoingdisclosure, it is appreciated that, throughout the foregoing disclosure,discussions using terms such as “processing,” “computing,”“calculating,” “determining,” “displaying,” or the like, refer to theaction and processes of a computer system, or similar electroniccomputing device, that manipulates and transforms data represented asphysical (electronic) quantities within the computer system's registersand memories into other data similarly represented as physicalquantities within the computer system memories or registers or othersuch information storage, transmission or display devices.

One or more components may be referred to herein as “configured to,”“configurable to,” “operable/operative to,” “adapted/adaptable,” “ableto,” “conformable/conformed to,” etc. Those skilled in the art willrecognize that “configured to” can generally encompass active-statecomponents and/or inactive-state components and/or standby-statecomponents, unless context requires otherwise.

The terms “proximal” and “distal” are used herein with reference to aclinician manipulating the handle portion of the surgical instrument.The term “proximal” refers to the portion closest to the clinician andthe term “distal” refers to the portion located away from the clinician.It will be further appreciated that, for convenience and clarity,spatial terms such as “vertical”, “horizontal”, “up”, and “down” may beused herein with respect to the drawings. However, surgical instrumentsare used in many orientations and positions, and these terms are notintended to be limiting and/or absolute.

Those skilled in the art will recognize that, in general, terms usedherein, and especially in the appended claims (e.g., bodies of theappended claims) are generally intended as “open” terms (e.g., the term“including” should be interpreted as “including but not limited to,” theterm “having” should be interpreted as “having at least,” the term“includes” should be interpreted as “includes but is not limited to,”etc.). It will be further understood by those within the art that if aspecific number of an introduced claim recitation is intended, such anintent will be explicitly recited in the claim, and in the absence ofsuch recitation no such intent is present. For example, as an aid tounderstanding, the following appended claims may contain usage of theintroductory phrases “at least one” and “one or more” to introduce claimrecitations. However, the use of such phrases should not be construed toimply that the introduction of a claim recitation by the indefinitearticles “a” or “an” limits any particular claim containing suchintroduced claim recitation to claims containing only one suchrecitation, even when the same claim includes the introductory phrases“one or more” or “at least one” and indefinite articles such as “a” or“an” (e.g., “a” and/or “an” should typically be interpreted to mean “atleast one” or “one or more”); the same holds true for the use ofdefinite articles used to introduce claim recitations.

In addition, even if a specific number of an introduced claim recitationis explicitly recited, those skilled in the art will recognize that suchrecitation should typically be interpreted to mean at least the recitednumber (e.g., the bare recitation of “two recitations,” without othermodifiers, typically means at least two recitations, or two or morerecitations). Furthermore, in those instances where a conventionanalogous to “at least one of A, B, and C, etc.” is used, in generalsuch a construction is intended in the sense one having skill in the artwould understand the convention (e.g., “a system having at least one ofA, B, and C” would include but not be limited to systems that have Aalone, B alone, C alone, A and B together, A and C together, B and Ctogether, and/or A, B, and C together, etc.). In those instances where aconvention analogous to “at least one of A, B, or C, etc.” is used, ingeneral such a construction is intended in the sense one having skill inthe art would understand the convention (e.g., “a system having at leastone of A, B, or C” would include but not be limited to systems that haveA alone, B alone, C alone, A and B together, A and C together, B and Ctogether, and/or A, B, and C together, etc.). It will be furtherunderstood by those within the art that typically a disjunctive wordand/or phrase presenting two or more alternative terms, whether in thedescription, claims, or drawings, should be understood to contemplatethe possibilities of including one of the terms, either of the terms, orboth terms unless context dictates otherwise. For example, the phrase “Aor B” will be typically understood to include the possibilities of “A”or “B” or “A and B.”

With respect to the appended claims, those skilled in the art willappreciate that recited operations therein may generally be performed inany order. Also, although various operational flow diagrams arepresented in a sequence(s), it should be understood that the variousoperations may be performed in other orders than those which areillustrated, or may be performed concurrently. Examples of suchalternate orderings may include overlapping, interleaved, interrupted,reordered, incremental, preparatory, supplemental, simultaneous,reverse, or other variant orderings, unless context dictates otherwise.Furthermore, terms like “responsive to,” “related to,” or otherpast-tense adjectives are generally not intended to exclude suchvariants, unless context dictates otherwise.

It is worthy to note that any reference to “one aspect,” “an aspect,”“an exemplification,” “one exemplification,” and the like means that aparticular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connectionwith the aspect is included in at least one aspect. Thus, appearances ofthe phrases “in one aspect,” “in an aspect,” “in an exemplification,”and “in one exemplification” in various places throughout thespecification are not necessarily all referring to the same aspect.Furthermore, the particular features, structures or characteristics maybe combined in any suitable manner in one or more aspects.

Any patent application, patent, non-patent publication, or otherdisclosure material referred to in this specification and/or listed inany Application Data Sheet is incorporated by reference herein, to theextent that the incorporated materials is not inconsistent herewith. Assuch, and to the extent necessary, the disclosure as explicitly setforth herein supersedes any conflicting material incorporated herein byreference. Any material, or portion thereof, that is said to beincorporated by reference herein, but which conflicts with existingdefinitions, statements, or other disclosure material set forth hereinwill only be incorporated to the extent that no conflict arises betweenthat incorporated material and the existing disclosure material.

In summary, numerous benefits have been described which result fromemploying the concepts described herein. The foregoing description ofthe one or more forms has been presented for purposes of illustrationand description. It is not intended to be exhaustive or limiting to theprecise form disclosed. Modifications or variations are possible inlight of the above teachings. The one or more forms were chosen anddescribed in order to illustrate principles and practical application tothereby enable one of ordinary skill in the art to utilize the variousforms and with various modifications as are suited to the particular usecontemplated. It is intended that the claims submitted herewith definethe overall scope.

1. A multi-energy port splitter for a modular energy system, themulti-energy port splitter comprising: an input port configured tocouple to an energy output port of an energy module; a first energyoutput port configured to deliver energy supplied by the energy outputport of the energy module; at least a second energy output portconfigured to deliver the energy supplied by the energy output port ofthe energy module; an electronically controlled power switch configuredto switch energy received at the input port to one of the first energyoutput port or the at least second energy output port; and a controllerconfigured to couple to the energy module through a first communicationbus, wherein the controller is electrically coupled to theelectronically controlled power switch through a power switch controlline.
 2. The multi-energy port splitter of claim 1, wherein theelectronically controlled power switch comprises an input node coupledto the input port, one output node coupled to the first energy outputport, and at least a second output node coupled to the second energyoutput port.
 3. The multi-energy port splitter of claim 2, wherein theelectronically controlled power switch comprises a plurality of outputnodes coupled to a plurality of energy output ports, wherein each one ofthe plurality of output nodes is coupled to one of the plurality ofenergy output ports.
 4. The multi-energy port splitter of claim 1,wherein the electronically controlled power switch comprises multipleswitches.
 5. The multi-energy port splitter of claim 1, wherein thefirst energy output port is electrically coupled to the controller via asecond communication bus, wherein the controller is configured tocommunicate to a surgical instrument electrically coupled to the firstenergy output port via the second communication bus.
 6. The multi-energyport splitter of claim 5, wherein the at least second energy output portis electrically coupled to the controller via at least a thirdcommunication bus, wherein the controller is configured to communicateto the surgical instrument electrically coupled to the at least secondenergy output port via the at least third communication bus.
 7. Themulti-energy port splitter of claim 6, further comprising a plurality ofenergy output ports electrically coupled to the controller via aplurality of communication busses, wherein each one of the plurality ofenergy output ports is coupled to one of the plurality of communicationbusses.
 8. The multi-energy port splitter of claim 7, wherein each oneof the plurality of communication busses is a serial communication bus.9. The multi-energy port splitter of claim 8, wherein the plurality ofcommunication busses is isolated from the plurality of energy outputports through a plurality of isolation circuits, wherein each one of theplurality of energy output ports is coupled to one of the plurality ofcommunication busses though one of the plurality of isolation circuits.10. The multi-energy port splitter of claim 1, further comprising anenergy module electrically coupled to the multi-energy port splitter.11. The multi-energy port splitter of claim 10, further comprising aheader module electrically coupled to the energy module and to themulti-energy port splitter.
 12. The multi-energy port splitter of claim11, wherein the header module is configured to send control data to thecontroller to select the first or the at least second energy outputports through the electrically controlled power switch and wherein theenergy module is configured to deliver energy to the electricallycontrolled power switch.
 13. A modular energy system, comprising: abackplane comprising a plurality of backplane communication interfaces,wherein at least one of the plurality of communication interfaces isconfigured to receive at least one multi-energy port splitter and atleast one other backplane communication interface is configured toreceive an energy module; wherein the at least one multi-energy portsplitter is presented as an energy delivery port to the energy module.14. The modular energy system of claim 13, wherein the at least onemulti-energy port splitter is presented to the energy module as aplurality of energy devices available for use.
 15. The modular energysystem of claim 14, wherein the energy module is configured to operateat least one of the plurality of energy devices for a first targetactivity and at least one of the plurality of energy devices for asecond target activity.
 16. The modular energy system of claim 13,wherein the at least one multi-energy port splitter is presented to theenergy module as a type of energy device.
 17. The modular energy systemof claim 16, wherein the energy module is configured to operate theenergy device for: a first target activity through a first energy portof the multi-energy port splitter; and a second target activity througha second energy port of the multi-energy port splitter.
 18. A modularenergy system, comprising: a header module; at least one energy modulecoupled to the header module, the energy module comprising an energyoutput port; and a multi-energy port splitter for a modular energysystem, the multi-energy port splitter comprising: an input port coupledto the energy output port of the energy module; a first energy outputport configured to deliver energy supplied by the energy output port ofthe energy module; at least a second energy output port configured todeliver the energy supplied by the energy output port of the energymodule; an electronically controlled power switch configured to switchenergy received at the input port to one of the first energy output portor the at least second energy output port; and a controller configuredto couple to the energy module through a first communication bus,wherein the controller is electrically coupled to the electronicallycontrolled power switch through a power switch control line.
 19. Themodular energy system of claim 18, wherein the electronically controlledpower switch comprises an input node coupled to the input port, oneoutput node coupled to the first energy output port, and at least asecond output node coupled to the second energy output port.
 20. Themodular energy system of claim 19, wherein the electronically controlledpower switch comprises a plurality of output nodes coupled to aplurality of energy output ports, wherein each one of the plurality ofoutput nodes is coupled to one of the plurality of energy output ports.21. The modular energy system of claim 18, wherein the electronicallycontrolled power switch comprises multiple switches.
 22. The modularenergy system of claim 18, wherein the first energy output port iselectrically coupled to the controller via a second communication bus,wherein the controller is configured to communicate to a surgicalinstrument electrically coupled to the first energy output port via thesecond communication bus.
 23. The modular energy system of claim 22,wherein the at least second energy output port is electrically coupledto the controller via at least a third communication bus, wherein thecontroller is configured to communicate to the surgical instrumentelectrically coupled to the at least second energy output port via theat least third communication bus.
 24. The modular energy system of claim23, further comprising a plurality of energy output ports electricallycoupled to the controller via a plurality of communication busses,wherein each one of the plurality of energy output ports is coupled toone of the plurality of communication busses.
 25. The modular energysystem of claim 24, wherein each one of the plurality of communicationbusses is a serial communication bus.
 26. The modular energy system ofclaim 25, wherein the plurality of communication busses is isolated fromthe plurality of energy output ports through a plurality of isolationcircuits, wherein each one of the plurality of energy output ports iscoupled to one of the plurality of communication busses though one ofthe plurality of isolation circuits.
 27. The modular energy system ofclaim 18, further comprising an energy module electrically coupled tothe multi-energy port splitter.
 28. The modular energy system of claim27, further comprising a header module electrically coupled to theenergy module and to the multi-energy port splitter.
 29. The modularenergy system of claim 28, wherein the header module is configured tosend control data to the controller to select the first or the at leastsecond energy output ports through the electrically controlled powerswitch and wherein the energy module is configured to deliver energy tothe electrically controlled power switch.